Lending a Hand Society
Lending a Hand Society was established in 2015. The team at LAH wanted to establish a platform which they could give back using philanthropic efforts in the communities they live and do business in. They strongly believe in focusing on charities that support at-risk children & youth, giving them the best chance at success. In selecting charities, they ensure that they align with our values, and that our donations most effectively are applied towards the cause.
Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen
Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen was founded in 2006 by like-minded individuals who wanted to make a positive difference in the lives of residents from the Downtown EastSide Vancouver (DTES) and the Lower Mainland. With the basic principle of Sikhism, “Sarbhat da Bhalla” (well being of all), the organization established its motto as, “Love All Feed All” and began serving cooked meals for those in need. We are now blessed to support the community by providing hot nutritious meals to those who are hungry every weekend. With the help from generous donors, we are able to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by also providing essential items. We have the ability to mobilize quickly to offer emergency relief for those who are affected by disasters. As a pillar in the community, we are inspired to be a resource to other organizations.
Backpack Buddies
In 2012, mother-daughter duo, Joanne and Emily-anne were confronted with the reality of childhood hunger in their own community. In particular, they learned about the “weekend hunger gap” — when kids who normally rely on school-day meal programs suffer in silence over the weekends when meal support is scarce. Joanne and Emily-anne engaged local schools, donors, and volunteers. In September 2012, Backpack Buddies made its first delivery of 20 bags of food to hungry children at a school in East Vancouver. Today, our team at Backpack Buddies supports over 5,000 hungry children every week by collaborating with educators, administrators, social workers and other non-profits. In 2022/23 school year, we delivered over 1.25 million meals to children in 63 communities across BC.
Hometown Heros
BC’s Hometown Heroes come to the aid of people in life-threatening situations every day. From rescue to recovery, BC’s front line workers and first responders—our fire fighters, along with the doctors, nurses and health care teams at Vancouver General Hospital—are always on duty for critically ill and severely injured British Columbians. When you need help, these heroes respond. VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation is Vancouver Coastal Health’s primary philanthropic partner, raising funds for specialized adult healthcare services and research for all British Columbians. VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation is the leading charity investing in healthcare innovation in British Columbia and partners with donors to raise essential funds for Vancouver Coastal Health, supporting VGH, UBC Hospital, GF Strong Rehab Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, and Community Health Services.
