Lactalis Canada Foodservice Partners with WeCare to Launch New Culinary Scholarship for Students with Disabilities

The Lactalis Culinary Companion Scholarship: Investing in Talent, Inspiring Futures 

December 16, 2025 – Toronto, ON – Lactalis Canada Foodservice, a division of Canadian dairy leader Lactalis Canada, is pleased to introduce the Lactalis Culinary Companion Scholarship in partnership with WeCare – a charitable organization dedicated to supporting children, youth and adults living with disabilities across Canada.  

Aimed at breaking down barriers in the kitchen to empower culinary students with disabilities, the new Lactalis Culinary Companion Scholarship is a one-time award of $4,000 designed to support one outstanding culinary student living with a disability.  

“This initiative is more than financial support – it’s a celebration of talent, perseverance, and the power of inclusive opportunities,” said WeCare Executive Director, Maria Collins. “By investing in future chefs, Lactalis Canada and We Care aim to help individuals living with disabilities turn their culinary dreams into reality.”  

“This scholarship reflects our shared commitment to empowering future culinary leaders,” said Iven Zanardo, General Manager, Foodservice & Ingredients & Exports at Lactalis Canada. “By supporting students in culinary arts, Lactalis Canada Foodservice and WeCare aim to break down barriers and create pathways for success.”  

Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a recognized post-secondary Culinary Arts program in Canada. The recipient will be selected at the discretion of a select committee appointed by WeCare and the scholarship award will be presented at the 2026 WeCare Gala (date to be announced).   

Applications are now open and eligible students must apply before February 28, 2026. For more information on the Lactalis Culinary Companion Scholarship, including where to submit your application, visit the Lactalis Canada Culinary Companionship page on the WeCare website HERE. 

About WeCare 

Founded in 1983, We Care is a national organization supporting children, youth, and adults living with disabilities. In partnership with the Food and Hospitality industry, we fund accessible camps and life skills programs that empower individuals and families. With 50+ industry members, We Care has raised over $29 million and funded over 151,000 camp experiences across Canada. Our Ambassador Program, scholarships, and volunteer initiatives remain core pillars, while we expand access to essential life skills programs. We Care is committed to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive. Together, we’re building an inclusive future. To learn more, visit www.wecare-canada.org  

 

About Lactalis Canada Inc. With over 140 years of brand heritage, Lactalis Canada is the Canadian dairy leader behind iconic brands Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, P’tit Québec, Balderson, Cheestrings Ficello, aMOOza!, Astro, Khaas, siggi’s, IÖGO, IÖGO nanö, Olympic, Lactantia, Beatrice, Bfit, Enjoy!, Marie Morin Canada, Galbani, and Président. With more than 30 operating sites including 20 manufacturing facilities across Canada, the company and its more than 4000 employees are committed to enriching and nurturing the lives of Canadians through sustainable and responsible growth, high-quality products, contribution to communities and partnership with farmers, customers, partners and suppliers. Lactalis Canada has been named on Forbes’ 2025 Best Employers in Canada and one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for 2025. The company is part of Lactalis Group, the world’s leading dairy company, headquartered in Laval, France. For more information, visit www.lactalis.ca 

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Media Contact: 
Lactalis Canada Media Relations 
media@ca.lactalis.com