About me
Marjorie Bencz began with Edmonton’s Food Bank in 1987 as a volunteer. In 1989, she became the Executive Director of Edmonton’s Food Bank.
Over the years, Marjorie’s work and dedication has resulted in her being recognized with a number of community awards such as an honorary diploma in Health and Community Studies from Grand MacEwan Community College and being named Global TV’s Woman of Vision. In 2012, in the category of Community Service, Marjorie was honored with a YWCA Woman of Distinction Award. In June 2015, Marjorie was inducted into the City of Edmonton Hall of Fame. In 2021, Marjorie received the Life Time Achievement from Food Banks Alberta.
Marjorie currently serves on the Board of Food Banks Canada.
Marjorie was honoured nationally for her ongoing service to Canadians and invested into the Order of Canada in the category of Social Science in 2006. Marjorie continues to believe that this recognition is not for her role, but for the collective support she receives from Edmontonians, Albertans and fellow Canadians in reducing hunger in our communities.
“A strong voice for the poor and working poor, Marjorie Bencz has been fighting hunger in Canada for the past two decades. Executive Director of the Edmonton Gleaners Association Food Bank since 1989 and past chair of the Canadian Association of Food Banks’ board of directors, she battles complacency and apathy with action. Adept at gathering community support, she has led a relentless campaign to safeguard the right of all Canadians to maintain their sense of dignity regardless of their socio-economic situation.” ~Excerpt - 2006 Investiture into the Order of Canada
Marjorie lives with her husband Mike in Edmonton. Marjorie owns farmland and knows a little about agriculture or “just enough to get herself into trouble!”. She has three grown daughters (plus special son-in-laws) and six grandchildren.
