This Hunger Action Month, we pause to reflect on our shared journey—40 years of nourishing lives and fostering hope within our community. At JFS, we work year-round to combat hunger and food insecurity, and this month is a reminder of the difference we’ve made together.
A Legacy of Compassion
Forty years ago, JFS food programs were born out of necessity, a temporary response to a growing crisis of the economic challenges of the early 1980’s. Like many food banks across Canada, our efforts began as a small, emergency measure. But as the years passed, it became clear that food security was not just an issue of the moment—it was a persistent challenge woven into the fabric of our society. Today, our programs stand as evidence of the ongoing support of our community and the thousands of lives we’ve all touched and transformed.
Growing Together
From its early start at the Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver, the Jewish Food Bank became a beacon of hope for those in need. As the cost of living soared and more people turned to us for help, we recognized the need for a new approach to food programs in our community. In 2018, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver, we released the Jewish Food Security Task Force Report. This report charted a bold new course for our food programs, envisioning an integrated food center that would provide emergency support and empower individuals with the tools and knowledge to build lasting food security.
The Kitchen: A Lifeline in Challenging Times
Amid the uncertainty of the pandemic, The Kitchen opened its doors in April 2021, becoming the heart of our JFS food security efforts. This dedicated space has allowed us to expand our reach and deepen our impact. With The Kitchen as our main hub and seven additional satellite locations across Greater Vancouver, we serve more than 1,600 people each month—over 5 times as many as in 2018 when the Food Security Task Force released their report. Here, we offer not just food, but dignity, hope, connection, and community.
The Kitchen has become a place where nourishing meals are prepared with love, neighbours come together to learn and grow, and hope is always on the menu. In May 2022, our efforts were recognized with the City of Vancouver’s “Healthy City for All” Award—a testament to the incredible impact made on the lives of those we serve.
Looking Ahead with Hope
As we celebrate four decades of growth and evolution, we still have so much we want to do. We’re continually seeking ways to improve, innovate, and adapt to the changing needs of our community. In November 2023, we proudly announced the purchase of a permanent home for all JFS services and programs, including The Kitchen. While we wait to fill this new space with good food and good company, our commitment remains unwavering: to nourish, educate, and empower.
40 Years of Community Care
Our journey over the past 40 years has been possible because of you—our community. It is your belief in the power of mutual care, and your commitment to Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), that has allowed us to weather every storm and emerge stronger, together. With your continued support, we will all carry forward this legacy of compassion and creating positive change for the next 40 years and beyond.
Take Action with Us
The fight against hunger and food insecurity isn’t over, and we need your help to continue making a difference. Here’s how you can take action:
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- Support emergency programs. With the rising cost of living, more people than ever need our help. Your contributions to Project Isaiah and other JFS campaigns are vital in ensuring we can continue to provide holistic, client-focused services. Over the last 4 years, the number of people using our food programs each month has more than doubled.
- Donate to Project Isaiah and other JFS campaigns
- Volunteer with us. Join our dedicated team of volunteers and help support over 3,000 community members each month.
- Cultivate a resilient food system. Support local infrastructure like the Farm-to-Plate Marketplace, champion local food producers, and advocate for food literacy programs.
- Support emergency programs. With the rising cost of living, more people than ever need our help. Your contributions to Project Isaiah and other JFS campaigns are vital in ensuring we can continue to provide holistic, client-focused services. Over the last 4 years, the number of people using our food programs each month has more than doubled.
- Advocate for change. Email your MP that you want to see government investment in progressive, equitable income policies that make life more affordable for everyone. Learn about policies that address the housing crisis and ensure a living wage.
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- Continue learning about Food Security. Stay informed about JFS’s work by signing up for our e-newsletter and following us on social media.
- Sign up for our e-newsletter
- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
- Read previous Hunger Action Month posts:
- Other resources to learn more:
Together, we can make a world of difference. Thank you for standing with us on this mission.