Convenience retailer 7-Eleven Canada is once again leveraging one of its most recognizable products in an effort to raise funds for food banks.

With its Slurpee Name Your Price Day, which is running on Sept. 21, the retailer is inviting Canadians to get their hands on a slushie while opening their wallets to support Canadians facing food insecurity. During the event, people can stop by one of 7 Eleven’s nearly 600 locations across the country, pick up a large Slurpee, and pay what they want for the beverage – with the proceeds donated to Food Banks Canada.

“Our Slurpee Name Your Price Day event is a special one as we get to make a direct impact in the communities we operate in together with our partners at Food Banks of Canada. Every time someone buys a Slurpee, it helps provide meals for a neighbour in need,” says Marc Goodman, VP and general manager of 7-Eleven Canada.

Last year, the event raised more than $50,000 and enabled Food Banks Canada to provide more than 100,000 meals. “This year, we hope to build on that legacy and hope customers will join us in making an even bigger impact,” Goodman says.

The event is held at a time when food bank visits across the country are on the rise. In March 2022 alone, nearly 1.5 million visits were made to food banks. Among those who use them in Canada, about a third are children, nearly half are single adult households, and almost 10% are seniors.

“No matter how small your donation may seem, it can still make a significant impact,” says Kirstin Beardsley, chief executive officer of Food Banks Canada. “Food banks across the country are relying on donations now more than ever, which is why we appreciate our partnership with 7-Eleven.”