The devastating impact on people’s lives and health due to COVID-19 has made 2020 a challenging year and continues into 2021. The pandemic has also negatively impacted the economy and brought financial hardships for many. For some, the loss of income has led to “food insecurity” – a term used to describe the challenge individuals and families face in having access to nutritious food.
In order to provide much-needed assistance, the volunteers of BAPS Charities organized local food drives in 14 cities across Canada to serve the community at large.
One such food drive was organized in Calgary, AB during the holiday season during which over 1,200 pounds of non-perishable food items were donated to the Centre for Newcomers on January 11, 2021, and the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA) on January 12, 2021.
Rabah Swaidek, Representative, Centre for Newcomers said, “Thank you very much for donating over 500 pounds of food and essentials for our COVID relief hampers. Without our donors and supporters, the Centre for Newcomers would not be able to serve our clients and our community. You make our work possible!”
Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association tweeted, “A big thank you from CIWA to BAPS Charities for their generous donation through their food drive as a part of their COVID-19 relief efforts. The thoughtful donation of culturally appropriate vegetarian non-perishable food items to assist many struggling immigrant families during these unprecedented and stressful times is very much appreciated.”
Donations were collected while observing appropriate masking and social distancing guidelines to protect the health of everyone involved. BAPS Charities thanks all of the volunteers and donors who came together to help the community during these difficult times.
