The BC Thanksgiving Food Drive (BCTFD), a province-wide initiative, is returning on Saturday, September 21, to help support thousands of British Columbians who rely on food banks for their basic nutritional needs. The event will see volunteers across the province, including a dedicated team in Squamish, working to collect much-needed non-perishable food items.
In Squamish, the food drive will involve around 100 community volunteers who canvass neighbourhoods and collect donations for the Squamish Food Bank. Last year, the local effort reached 4,500 homes and collected over 5,000 pounds of food. This year, organizers aim to expand the drive’s reach, particularly in the downtown area, where condos have been growing. Plans include placing drop-off boxes and flyers in the common areas of participating condo buildings to encourage more residents to get involved.
The Squamish Multifaith Association coordinates the Squamish event in partnership with the Squamish branch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the Squamish Food Bank. Volunteers will distribute flyers and donation boxes from September 16 to 19, with collections scheduled for the morning of September 21.
All donations will be brought directly to the Squamish Food Bank at 37871 – 3 Ave.
Abi Watson, a representative of the Squamish Food Bank, highlighted the significance of the BC Thanksgiving Food Drive in meeting the community’s needs. “Thanks to the generous support from the BC Thanksgiving Food Drive, our Food Bank can assist those in need within our community,” said Watson. “Many individuals in Squamish face food shortages, which leaves them and their children without adequate meals and proper nutrition. We strive to stock our shelves with nutritious food options to enhance the overall health and well-being of those who rely on our services.”
Between 400 and 500 people in Squamish each month, including seniors, people on disability or assistance, low-income working families, and children, rely on the food bank’s support. Watson emphasized the impact of community contributions, whether in non-perishable food items or cash donations. She urged donors to be mindful of expiration dates, as expired items cannot be used and incur additional disposal costs, further straining the Food Bank’s resources.
On behalf of the staff and volunteers, Watson expressed heartfelt gratitude to the community for its ongoing support. “Your contributions play a vital role in combating food insecurity in Squamish. We encourage everyone to give generously and help make a difference in our community.”
For those interested in participating or volunteering, more information can be obtained by contacting the Squamish Food Drive at squamishfooddrive@gmail.com.
