Share joy, dignity, and good food this holiday season

›› Mila Czemerys

In a year marked by soaring food prices and growing economic uncertainty, the simple act of putting fresh, nourishing meals on the table has become an increasingly difficult challenge for many families in our community. For those in need, Fernwood NRG’s Gift of Good Food holiday fundraiser is providing vital support.

Running until December 31, 2024, the annual fundraiser aims to raise $150,000 to support programs that deliver fresh produce, shared meals, and community-based food initiatives to families, youth, and seniors across the Capital Region.
With 1 in 5 British Columbians experiencing food insecurity, the demand for dignified and consistent food access is rising. Increasing costs, the housing crisis, and the lingering effects of the pandemic have created an environment where families are forced to choose between basic necessities like rent and groceries.

“The cost of food is soaring, and many of our neighbors are struggling to make ends meet,” said Aaren Topley of Fernwood NRG. “This fundraiser helps ensure they don’t have to face those impossible choices alone.”

How the program works

The Gift of Good Food ensures dignified access to nutritious food for those in need, offering fresh fruits and vegetables through the Good Food Box program. By providing food without differentiating between paying customers and those receiving it for free, the program minimizes stigma. Funds raised also support weekly community meals that foster connection and conversation, as well as the Best Babies program, which provides perinatal support for new and expecting parents. Additionally, this initiative partners with local neighborhood houses and community centers to expand food security efforts across the region.

For many, the impact of these programs goes beyond physical nourishment. “It’s an amazing program that helps our family stay healthy and nourished not only physically but emotionally as well,” shared one recipient.

Another participant reflected on the broader sense of belonging the program fosters: “The community centre is such a central part of our lives now that it’s hard to imagine our lives without it. We’ve made many friends, and it has become a welcome and supportive fixture in our lives.”

How to help

The Gift of Good Food fundraiser offers several ways for community members to get involved:

– Donate: Contributions can be made online at thegiftofgoodfood.ca/donate or in person at the Fernwood Community Centre (1240 Gladstone Avenue). Donations of $20 or more are eligible for a charitable tax receipt.

– Participate in the Online Auction: From December 11–13, bid on items donated by local businesses at airauctioneer.com/gift-of-good-food-auction-2024.

– Start a Fundraising Team: Team up with friends, family, or coworkers to raise funds together. Learn how at fernwoodnrg.ca/ggf-fundraising-teams.

– Spread the Word: Share the fundraiser through social media or with your community to help amplify the message.

Voices from the community

Testimonials from participants underscore the program’s impact. Ruth, a community member, described the program as “bringing relief, healthy nutrition, and a sense of community hope.”

Donika, another recipient, shared the joy her family experiences from the Good Food Box: “We call it our lucky week every time we get it—fresh produce and always some fruits for the kids to eat on the way home.”

Making a difference

The Gift of Good Food is more than a holiday fundraiser; it’s a year-round commitment to providing food access—and building a community filled with warmth, connection, and justice. Every dollar raised brings fresh, nutritious food to families while reinforcing the connections that make neighbourhoods stronger.

“Food brings people from many cultures together, and for our diverse staff and community members, it has been at the heart of cherished family memories and meaningful connections. This program offers nutritious food to new families and their children while fostering opportunities to bond with other families—connections that often grow into lifelong friendships,” said Rana Battah, Director of Community Programs at Fernwood NRG.

As 2024 draws to a close, Fernwood NRG is calling on the community to step up and support their neighbours in need. Whether through a donation, a bid in the online auction, or a grassroots fundraising effort, every contribution helps ensure that our neighbours feel the support of their community, not only during this holiday season but throughout 2025.

For more info visit thegiftofgoodfood.­ca/donate.