Guru Nanak Food Bank
We take pleasure in providing nutritional food in a dignified and respectful environment. Moreover, we think it is our responsibility to connect our people with other community resources to assist them in becoming self-sufficient.
This community kitchen is meant for providing food to all devotees, pilgrims and visitors. It is a symbol of equality, fraternity and brotherhood. It is here that the high and low, the rich and the poor the learned and the ignorant, the kings and the paupers, all share the same food sitting together in one row. This kitchen is run by the common contributions of the Sikhs. The institution of Langar (Common Kitchen) is instrumental in creating social equality among the whole mankind.
Dear History of Guru Nanak Food Bank,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to express my heartfelt appreciation and admiration for the incredible work that the Guru Nanak Food Bank has accomplished since its establishment during the challenging times of the pandemic.
It was truly a remarkable decision by Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib Surrey B.C Canada, under the guidance of Gyani Narinder Singh ji, to initiate the delivery of groceries to the doorsteps of those most in need. Recognizing the necessity for a dedicated food bank within the community, Gyani Narinder Singh ji, along with the esteemed team of directors, Neeraj Walia, Inderjit Singh Dhillon, Surinder Manj, Anup Singh Loodu, and Jatinder Minhas, made the visionary decision to establish the Guru Nanak Food Bank Society on Canada Day, July 1st, 2020.
Since then, the Guru Nanak Food Bank, also known as GNFb, has grown exponentially and has become a beacon of hope for the community. Within the first year, the food bank had more than 3,000 registered clients, and over 5,500 international students received the Canada Welcome Package, specifically designed to assist those who have recently arrived in the country.
The selfless dedication of the Guru Nanak Food Bank Society was evident during critical times of crisis. When BC faced devastating wildfires, the food bank was at the forefront, providing immediate aid to the most affected areas. Similarly, during the BC flooding, GNFb once again demonstrated their commitment by swiftly mobilizing resources and providing relief to those in need. I am particularly impressed by the efforts to establish a temporary food bank in Chilliwack to extend assistance during that challenging period in November 2021.
As the food bank celebrated its second-year anniversary on July 1st, 2022, it proudly served more than 6,800 recipients and supported 900 international students. Furthermore, the decision to open another branch in Abbotsford showcased the organization’s commitment to expanding its reach and impact. By December 2022, the food bank opened its third and largest branch in the city of Delta, a testament to the incredible growth and success of GNFb. By June 2023, the food bank had reached an astonishing milestone of supporting over 12,000 registered recipients and assisting more than 25,000 international students in their time of need.
I am deeply impressed by the multifaceted support provided by the Guru Nanak Food Bank. Not only have you addressed the essential need for food, but you have also actively contributed to numerous programs focusing on mental health, drug overdose prevention, orientation for newcomers, as well as employment and informational seminars. Your dedication and commitment to the holistic well-being of the community are truly commendable.
It was a matter of great pride and honor when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Minister of Immigration Sean Fraser, and the Premier of BC visited the food bank. Their presence undoubtedly highlights the incredible impact and recognition that GNFb has earned through its selfless service to the community.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team of the Guru Nanak Food Bank Society, the directors, the volunteers, and the generous community members who have made this endeavor possible. Your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to serving those in need are an inspiration to us all.
May the Guru Nanak Food Bank Society continue to grow from strength to strength, reaching new heights of success and making an even greater impact on the lives of individuals and families in need.
Warm regards,
Neeraj Walia
Secretary
GURU NANAK MODI KHANA FOOD BANK.
11188 84 Ave Delta B.C V4C 2L7
604.580.1313
1.888.594.1313
www.gnfb.ca
GNFB Story
Sikhs have always tried their best to follow their Guruji‘s teachings and serve the humanity selflessly. With the same thought and vision Gyani Narinder Singh Walia who is a President of Gurdwara Sahib Dukh Nivaran Sahib Society Surrey BC Canada had vision to open Sikh’s own food bank, Narinder Singh Walia decided to help the mankind regardless of their religion or origin. It was back in the year 2020 during the onset of COVID-19 pandemic when he decided to start free Seva of grocery distribution at Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib however, in a short span it was realised that people were in more need than this. It was after this realisation that Gyani ji decided to start something permanent First Sikh Food Bank or we can say a permanent Seva by the Sikh community with the slogan and Moto of “Recognising all human races as One”. Soon after Gyani ji formed a board of directors with very known names Inderjit S Dhillon, Bill Sandhu, Neeraj Walia, Anup Loodu, Surinder Manj and. Jatinder Minhas All these brilliant minds with a great vision came together to serve the humanity and inaugurated Guru Nanak Food bank on July 1, 2020. It is undoubtedly due to Gyani Ji’s devotion and hard work that Guru Nanak food bank’s name is now recognised all over the globe.
