Toronto ice storm: Food replacement gift cards run out again

There have been more lineups today for grocery gift cards for people who lost food because of the recent ice storm, but some provincial and city offices distributing the cards have run out again.

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The province says more than $500,000 worth of gift cards was handed out to more than 5,000 families (about 12,000 gift cards) since last Tuesday but many people who lined up Thursday still werent able to get cards.

Approximately $325,000 of gift cards were distributed today, according to a release from the Ontario government.

Toronto's Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly says the province is trying to get more cards to people who need them.

Well, there will probably always be more of a demand than supply, he said.

A serious effort has been made by the province and the city as its partner to get as many cards as possible out there Thursday and Friday.

Families in need are eligible for $100 gift cards available at Ontario Works offices throughout the city, while individuals in need are eligible for $50 gift cards.

Premier Kathleen Wynne announced Monday that the Ontario government will match corporate donations up to a maximum of $100,000.

Loblaw put forward a $25,000 donation for the program, which was matched by the provincial government.

The following retailers have also stepped forward with $25,000 donations of their own, each matched by the province including:

• Shoppers Drug Mart.
• Metro.
• Sobeys.
• Coppas Fresh Maket has also donated $5,000 in gift cards.

The gift card replacement program ends on Friday.

The province says the cards are intended for those most in need.