Empire Co., the Official Grocer of Team Canada, is proud to launch its Feed the Dream Olympic plateform, pledging $1-million to help nourish Canadian athletes on the road to continued success after the Paris 2024 Games.
- As part of the Feed The Dream campaign, all Olympic and Paralympic athletes who represent Canada at the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games will receive grocery cards that can be redeemed at the following locations: stores across Canada including Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, IGA extra, Garden Market IGA, Foodland, FreshCo, Chalo! FreshCo, and Thrifty Foods.
- The $1M will be divided equally between all Olympic and Paralympic athletes who compete for Canada at Paris 2024.
- Empire Co. is proud to Feed The Dream of Canadian athletes by providing them access to great food as they represent Canada on the global stage.
How much will each athlete be getting of the $1 Million?
The $1 million will be split evenly amongst all Olympic and Paralympic athletes that represent Canada at the Paris Games. Based on the exact number of athletes that compete in the Games, the amount per athlete will fluctuate. This page will be updated as the number of recipient athletes is finalized.
Which athletes are eligible for the program? How will eligible athletes receive their grocery card?
Athletes that are nominated for the 2024 Canadian Olympic Team and travel to Paris will receive a card. The cards will be shipped directly to athlete’s home addresses once they return from Paris. The home address provided in your Bridge account will be used for shipment.
Where can athletes use their grocery cards?
The Athlete Grocery Cards will be redeemable at all Sobeys Inc. stores across Canada including Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, IGA extra, Garden Market IGA, Foodland, FreshCo, Chalo! FreshCo, and Thrifty Foods.
Can I use the grocery card on any products available at the stores listed above?
Correct, your Athlete Grocery Card can be used for all in-store purchases, with the exception of purchasing gift cards.
Do I need to show ID when I use my grocery card?
Correct, to ensure that only qualified Team Canada athletes are able to use the Athlete Grocery Cards, you may be asked to show a piece of government photo ID to confirm your identity. This is for theft/loss prevention purposes.
Can I lend the grocery card to a friend or family member ?
Athlete Grocery Cards can only be used by the individual whose name is represented on the card.
When will athletes be able to use their grocery cards?
Athletes will be able to use their grocery cards as of October 15th, 2024. They will be pre-loaded with $850 and the remaining balance of funds will be loaded onto the cards automatically in December 1st, February 1st, and March 1st. Athletes will be able to use their grocery cards until December 31st, 2025.
Why are Sobeys & Team Canada making this commitment?
At Sobeys Inc. we believe in the power of sport to inspire and unite Canadians. No sporting event brings the country together like the Olympics.
Why is it important for Sobeys to support athletes specifically?
Athletes need our support. While there are many household names in the Canadian Olympic family, they aren’t compensated like professional athletes. They rely heavily on their communities for support and funding. Many work multiple jobs to pay for their training while they pursue their dreams – and the hopes of our nation. No one should have to worry about putting food on their plates.
When will athletes receive their grocery cards?
When Team Canada athletes return home from Paris their Sobeys Inc. Athlete Grocery Cards will be shipped to their home address. This allows them to use the card for nourishing food when they arrive home.
How can athletes find out the balance of funds on their grocery cards?
The cards will come pre-loaded with $850 of funds, and will be loaded again with the remaining balance of the funds on December 1st, 2024, February 1st and March 1st. Athletes will be able to check the balance on their cards either in store or by calling 1-800-832-0717.
When in the month does my card get reloaded?
Your card is already pre-loaded with $850 and will be loaded a second time no later than October 15th 2024. Additional loads will take place throughout 2024 and 2025 – specific dates and amounts will be updated on this page by October 15th 2024.
How will I know when my card has been reloaded?
An email communication will go out to all qualified Team Canada athletes who received a grocery card prior to October 15th and again as cards are uploaded. You can also check the balance on your card either in store or by calling 1-800-832-0717.
When will the grocery cards stop being reloaded with funds?
The final load date will be updated on this page by October 15th of 2024. Your Athlete Grocery Card will expire on December 31st 2025.
How do I replace a lost card?
If you have a lost or stolen card, please reach out to groceries@olympic.ca as soon as possible and notify them of the situation. They will inform you on next steps.