Surrey, B.C. — Surrey–North MLA Mandeep Dhaliwal is praising the work of CityReach Care Society after visiting its Surrey distribution location and meeting the staff and volunteers behind its Food for Families program.
“Today I had the privilege of visiting CityReach Care Society’s Surrey distribution location and meeting the incredible team of staff and volunteers behind their Food for Families program,” Dhaliwal said.
The program rescues fresh, healthy food from local grocers and farms each week and distributes it free of charge to more than 4,500 vulnerable people in the community. According to CityReach, the impact of the program over the past year has been significant.
In 2025 alone, the Food for Families program diverted 1.4 million pounds of food from landfills, provided 58,000 fresh food hampers to more than 800 local families, and rescued over $4 million worth of food.
Dhaliwal also acknowledged the role of community partners and volunteers in making the program successful. With support from Cedar Grove and Broadway Church, and the dedication of volunteers, every dollar donated helps rescue an estimated $10 worth of food.
Despite its impact, Dhaliwal noted that programs like Food for Families currently receive no government funding.
“It’s inspiring work, but sadly, programs like this receive no government funding,” he said. “We need to make food security a priority for every family in Surrey and across B.C.”
Dhaliwal said the visit reinforced the importance of community-led solutions to food insecurity and the need for broader support.
“I’m grateful for the chance to see firsthand the difference CityReach is making in our community,” he added.
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