Welcome to Gravenhurst Against Poverty (GAP)

We're here to support our neighbours in need by providing essential services in food, transportation, and wellness. Whether you’re facing challenges or just need a little extra help, GAP is a safe, inclusive space where you can access the support you need, free of judgment. Our programs are confidential, compassionate, and designed to help you gain stability and hope.

Contact Us

Emergency and Contact Information

If you are in a life-threatening emergency, we encourage you to call 9-1-1.

For non-emergencies, please contact the
O.P.P. Bracebridge Detachment
Phone
at:
(705)-645-2211 or 1-888-310-1122.

GAP’s Services

All of our programs are available to everyone in the Gravenhurst community. Meals are prepared by dedicated volunteers. Everyone is welcome!

Food Programs

  • Our Tuesday Food Program offers a warm, welcoming space for a delicious meal among friends plus a food bag to take home. This weekly lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to connect with other neighbours in a supportive environment, enjoy lively conversations, and feel the embrace of community. We believe that social connection is essential to well-being, and the Tuesday Food Program is a place where everyone can come together to enjoy good food and great company.

    If you’d like to pick up your meal instead, we’re happy to accommodate! Just call us ahead of time, and we’ll have your lunch ready for takeout along with your food bag.

    • When: Every Tuesday

    • Time: 12:00pm - 1:30pm

    • Where: Trinity United Church, 290 Muskoka Road North, Gravenhurst (Lower Level)

    • Contact for Pick-up: Call

    705-641-2225 or email inquiries@gravenhurstagainstpoverty.com

  • Our Wednesday Lunch & Social Program offers lunch and inviting setting. This program is open to neighbours who may need a meal or simply want to spend time with other neighbours. There is something special about gathering over a meal, and this weekly event is all about nourishing both body and soul. Whether you’re coming for the food or for the company, you’ll find a welcoming space where you can relax and connect.

    • When: Every Wednesday

    • Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

    • Where: Trinity United Church, 290 Muskoka Road North, Gravenhurst (Lower Level)

  • The Thursday Food Day Program is dedicated to ensuring that nutritious food is accessible to neighbours in our community. Each week, we provide essential grocery items and fresh produce, helping individuals and families fill their cupboards and fridges with healthy options. We know that food security is vital, and we’re here to make sure everyone in Gravenhurst can access the food they need. If you’re unable to pick up your hamper, we offer a delivery option to ensure no one is left out.

    When: Every Thursday

    ‍ ‍Pick-Up Time: 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

    ‍ ‍Where: Trinity United Church, 290 Muskoka Road North, Gravenhurst (Lower Level)

    ‍ ‍

    Delivery Registration Cut-Off: The Friday of the week prior

    Register for Pick-Up or Delivery: Call 705-641-2225 or email inquiries@gravenhurstagainstpoverty.com

    ‍ ‍

Wellness Programs

  • Our Wednesday Lunch & Social Program offers lunch and inviting setting. This program is open to neighbours who may need a meal or simply want to spend time with other neighbours. There is something special about gathering over a meal, and this weekly event is all about nourishing both body and soul. Whether you’re coming for the food or for the company, you’ll find a welcoming space where you can relax and connect.

    • When: Every Wednesday

    • Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

    • Where: Trinity United Church, 290 Muskoka Road North, Gravenhurst (Lower Level)

  • The Youth Adult Centre (YAC) provides a safe, inclusive space for youth aged 12-18 to gather, grow and gain valuable mentorship through fun group activities, creative workshops, or discussions on important life topics. YAC is more than just a program – it’s a space where youth can be themselves, make new friends, and find support from peers and mentors. All are welcome to join, and participation is free. If you’re a young person looking for a place to belong and thrive, YAC is here for you!

    • When: Every other Friday, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

    • Where: Trinity United Church, 290 Muskoka Road North, Gravenhurst (Lower Level)

  • The Community Kitchen Program provides a supportive environment where neighbours can come together to prepare nutritious, budget-friendly meals, share tips, and develop their cooking skills. All ingredients and supplies are provided, and participants will leave with both a delicious meal and the knowledge to recreate it at home.

    • When: Currently paused.

    • Where: Trinity United Church, 290 Muskoka Road North, Gravenhurst (Lower Level)

Transportation Programs

  • Reliable transportation is essential to maintaining health, well-being, and independence. At Gravenhurst Against Poverty (GAP), our Transportation Program, in partnership with Bala Taxi, offers neighbours no-cost taxi rides for essential in-town trips (Gravenhurst). Whether our neighbours need to reach medical appointments, pick up groceries, visit the food bank, commute to work, or access laundry services, our Transportation Program is here to ensure neighbours in Gravenhurst can get where they need to go. Please go to our Transportation Webpage for more information.

Weekly and Monthly Events

Eligibility & How to Get Help

GAP services are available to individuals and families in Gravenhurst who are facing financial hardship and struggling to meet basic needs. We are committed to serving everyone in our community who needs assistance with respect, dignity, and kindness. There is no formal application needed to access GAP services. Simply reach out to us by phone, email, or visit during our service hours to get started. Our team of volunteers will help connect you to the services that best fit your needs.

Phone: (705)-641-2225

Email:inquiries@gravenhurstagainstpoverty.com

In-person: 290 Muskoka Road North, Gravenhurst, ON  P1P 1V4

GAP Office Hours:
Tuesday | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Wednesday | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
​Thursday | 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

GAP Office and
Contact Information

If you are interested in accessing any of GAP's programs, have questions, or are having difficulty registering, please reach out to our Volunteer Administrator. We are here to help you get the support you need.

Gravenhurst Against Poverty operates out of the lower level of Trinity United Church at 290 Muskoka Road North in Gravenhurst (Lower Level).

GAP's Office Hours (Walk-in):
Tuesday | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Wednesday | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
​Thursday | 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Telephone:
GAP Office: (705)-641-2225
Food Program: (705)-646-3733
Transportation Program: (705)-646-5349


Email: inquiries@gravenhurstagainstpoverty.com

Mailing Address:
Gravenhurst Against Poverty
P.O. Box 1133
Gravenhurst, ON, P1P 1V4

Frequently Asked Questions

(FAQs)

General FAQs

Who can access GAP’s programs and services?

GAP’s programs are open to anyone in the Gravenhurst community who is facing financial hardship or needs support. All are welcome, and no formal qualifications are required.

How do I sign up for GAP programs?

To register for any of GAP’s programs, simply call our office at (705)-641-2225 or visit us during office hours. You can also email us at: inquiries@gravenhurstagainstpoverty.com

Is there a cost to participate in GAP programs?

No, all of GAP’s programs are completely free. We are here to provide support without financial barriers.

Where is GAP located?

GAP operates out of the lower level of Trinity United Church at 290 Muskoka Road North, Gravenhurst (Lower Level).

Food Programs FAQs

How can I receive food from GAP?

You can participate in our Tuesday Fresh Meal Pick-Up, Wednesday Fresh Soup Program, or Thursday Food Day Program. To register for food pick-up or delivery, call (705)-641-2225 or email inquiries@gravenhurstagainstpoverty.com.

What is the cut-off for registering for food delivery?

The registration cut-off for Thursday Food Day delivery is the Friday of the week prior.

Can I pick up my meal instead of dining in?

Yes, meals can be picked up on Tuesdays. Call ahead at (705)-641-2225 or email inquiries@gravenhurstagainstpoverty.com to arrange your meal pick-up.

Wellness Programs FAQs

What can I expect at the Community Kitchen Program? (currently not offered)

You’ll learn how to prepare nutritious, budget-friendly meals alongside other participants. Ingredients and supplies are provided, and you’ll get to enjoy the meal you cook.

Transportation Programs FAQs

How do I register for the GAP ‘No Cost Taxi’ Program?

To register for the ‘No Cost Taxi’ Program, call (705)-641-2225 during office hours to receive a Transportation Card. This card will allow you to book essential in-town (Gravenhurst) trips.

GAP’s Office Hours:
Tuesday | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Wednesday | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
​Thursday | 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

What types of trips are covered by the ‘No Cost Taxi’ Program?

The Transportation Card can be used for essential trips within Gravenhurst, such as medical appointments, groceries, job interviews, laundry, and food bank visits.

Can I use the transportation service if I’m not part of the Food Program?

Yes, the Transportation Program is separate, and you do not need to be registered for the Food Program to access transportation services.

Community Stories

  • "GAP has been a lifeline for me and my family. The meals, the support, and the friendly volunteers have made such a difference in our lives."

    GAP Neighbour

  • "Walking a distance with a cart of groceries or heavy, wet laundry can be a struggle. It can be a real mental thing when you feel isolated. GAP makes you feel special in knowing that people care. There are not enough thank-you’s to express my gratitude."

    Nina, GAP Neighbour

  • "GAP Coffee Social gives me a reason to get out and socialize with other people and a reason to not stay home. I get to be with other people who I wouldn’t normally be with – I thoroughly enjoy it!"

    Terry-Jo

  • "I got to make something I had never made before and was able to take it home to share with my dad and my friend. I really appreciate learning to cook new things that don’t cost a lot."

    Mike

Other Community Resources


Canadian Red Cross Simcoe Muskoka Branch
https://www.redcross.ca/in-your-community/ontario/ontario-find-a-branch/simcoe-muskoka-branch


Extreme Weather Resources (District of Muskoka)
https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/health-and-emergency-services/health-and-emergency-services-directory.aspx


Victim Support Services
https://muskokavs.ca/

Women's Shelters in Muskoka
https://mwag.ca/


Employment North
https://employmentnorth.com/


EarlyON Child and Family Centre
https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/children-and-seniors/earlyon-child-and-family-centres-landing-page.aspx


Family and Youth Services (District of Muskoka)
https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/children-and-seniors/children-s-programs-and-services.aspx


The Salvation Army Family Services
https://southmuskokaministries.com/family-services-food-banks-christmas-hampers-camp/


The Salvation Army Food Bank
https://southmuskokaministries.com/family-services-food-banks-christmas-hampers-camp/food-bank-locations-hours/


Affordable Housing Programs (District of Muskoka)
https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/housing/housing-directory.aspx


Homelessness Initiatives (District of Muskoka)
https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/housing/i-need-help-emergency-assistance-and-homelessness.aspx


Social Housing (District of Muskoka)
https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/housing/social-housing.aspx


Seniors Programs and Services (District of Muskoka)
https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/children-and-seniors/seniors-landing-page.aspx


Community Transportation Plan (District of Muskoka)
https://www.engagemuskoka.ca/community-transportation


Corridor 11 Bus Information (District of Muskoka)
https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/community-services-and-support/corridor-11-bus.aspx


ConnexOntario - Free 24/7 Health Services Information
https://connexontario.ca/


MiND-AID
https://www.facebook.com/mindaidmuskoka

Privacy and Confidentiality

At GAP, we value your privacy. All personal information and participation in our programs are kept confidential. Your trust is important to us, and we ensure that your information will not be shared outside of GAP without your permission. You may review our Privacy Policy by clicking here.