SURREY FOOD BANK ......HELPING THE COMMUNITY BEYOND HUNGER

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A Beacon of Hope: The Surrey Food Bank Society

\nGod helps those who help others. This rephrased adage aptly describes the noble team of philanthropists behind the Surrey Food Bank Society, an organization dedicated to combating hunger and supporting the community.\n

A Humble Beginning

\nIn response to economic hardship, a coalition of churches opened a small food cupboard in Surrey in 1981. By June 1983, the Surrey Food Bank Society was formally established in a modest building on King George Highway. Initially seen as a temporary solution until the economy recovered, it has grown over the past 35 years into an indispensable resource for those in need.\n\n\n

Current Impact

\nWhat began as a sapling has now blossomed into a banyan tree. The Surrey Food Bank Society boasts:\n

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• An 8,000 sq. ft. warehouse in Whalley
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• A fleet of five vehicles and a lift truck
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• 400 active volunteers
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• A dedicated staff of fifteen
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\nEach week, the organization distributes approximately 2,000 food hampers while supporting numerous programs, agencies, and food security initiatives like the Food Action Coalition.\n

A “Hand Up” Philosophy

\nAs Kuldip K Ardawa, Community Partnership Manager, explains, "After 34 years, we have realized that people will always need our help. We like to say we give people a ‘hand up, not a handout.’"\n\nThe food bank serves families in Surrey and North Delta, providing nutritious food in a respectful, dignified environment. Moreover, the organization connects clients to other community services, fostering self-sufficiency.\n\n\n

Donations and Volunteers: The Backbone

\nThe Surrey Food Bank thrives thanks to donations and volunteers:\n

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• Donations of money and food come from individuals, organizations, and corporations.
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• Fundraising events like Breakfast with the Bank bolster resources.
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• Fresh produce donations are encouraged, with arrangements facilitated by Lisa S., Logistics Manager.
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\nVolunteers play a critical role, saving costs by sorting food, distributing it, and representing the organization at events. Their involvement ensures that more donations go directly to managing and purchasing food.\n

Self-Reliance and Unique Approach

\nThe Surrey Food Bank operates without core government funding, relying on the generosity of individuals and corporate donors, including mega retail food stores. This model of self-reliance has become its hallmark.\n

Governance and Ethics

\nThe organization is led by an elected, volunteer Board of Directors that oversees the Executive Director, staff, and volunteers. It adheres to the Code of Ethics of Food Banks Canada and is a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency (13216-8162-RR0001).\n

A Heartfelt Conclusion

\nAfter a brief tour of the Whalley location, the following words resonated deeply: “To those who give, and to those who serve selflessly, you hold the torch that lights the way for countless others.”\n\n

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\n\nProf. Surinder Kochhar (Shaun)\nLPN, FCN, M.Com, CAIIB, DIM\nA freelance writer with 36 years of experience and a Health Coach at the University of Victoria\n\n