Food insecurity is rising in Canada. According to a recent survey, 1 in 5 Canadians is going hungry due to a rise in food prices. The Food Banks Canada poll found lower-income Canadians are the hardest hit. At NewToBC, we know that many of our newcomers struggle. Often, you’re struggling to restart your pre-arrival careers, you’re working long hours and multiple jobs, and it’s tough to find the money for the increasing cost of food. Just know there are a number of organizations that are available to help you, should you need it.
Immigrant Link Centre Society
The Immigrant Link Centre Society started with a small group of immigrants who watched a documentary about food waste during an English as a Second Language (ESL) program in Coquitlam, BC.
First, the group formed the idea for a free food project called “Win Win” and gathered unsold food from grocery stores with the goal to stop good edible food from entering landfills. More importantly, they realized quickly how much edible and nutritious food could be diverted to students of the program. Today, they focus on serving new immigrants with low-income and people who are seeking refuge in Canada. Subsequently, “Win Win” believes that no one should struggle to obtain the necessities of life and are committed to saving resources, energy, and time while improving access to nutritious foods.
In short, if you would like to find healthy food, at no cost, please fill out this form.
Muslim Food Bank
Muslim Food Bank and Community Services Society (“MFBCS”) provides food hampers to cater to specific dietary and cultural needs (vegan or religious dietary restrictions). You can contact them at 1.866.248.3868 Ext 1 for an appointment to register for service.
Food Banks Canada
Food Banks Canada serves people of all ages and walks of life. First, the staff and volunteers work to create a positive, safe, and welcoming environment for you. In addition, you can expect to be welcomed and treated with patience, understanding, dignity and respect. Moreover, they know the decision to come to a Food Bank can be a difficult one and they work hard to help you feel at ease and supported.
Surrey Libraries
The Surrey Libraries offer a reservoir of resources and information to help you.
- There are a number of community meals and cooking clubs available in the community of Surrey, BC.
- Learn tips and tricks on how to save money, find community gardens, and more.
- Find a Food Bank in your area.
- For those who cannot cook for themselves, Meals on Wheels offers a fresh meal delivery to your door.
- Use the food resources at the library with a selection of cookbooks with low-cost recipes, and books on saving on groceries and growing your own food.
With the increasing access to diverse foods in this country, we know that these organizations will be able to assist you in finding the food you need. Please share this with your networks. Please reach out and accept a helping hand if you need it. And please give back through donations or volunteering when you can.