The launch of North Delta’s newest food security initiative marks a significant milestone in the community’s battle against hunger. The Guru Nanak Food Bank opened its doors this weekend at its second location on 116 Street, offering a glimpse of hope amid rising food insecurity concerns across the region.
“What we’re witnessing today isn’t just a building opening—it’s a community coming together to address one of our most pressing challenges,” said Narinder Singh Walia, founder of the food bank network, during Saturday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony. “When we started this journey, we never imagined how quickly the need would grow.”
The 8,000-square-foot facility becomes the second major operation for the organization, which first established its presence in Surrey in 2020. That original location now serves more than 1,700 families weekly—a number that has steadily increased amid rising living costs and economic pressures facing many British Columbians.
Local officials attending the ceremony pointed to alarming statistics showing nearly 15% of Delta households experiencing some form of food insecurity in the past year. The new North Delta location aims to provide essential support to families caught in this growing crisis.
“What makes this initiative particularly remarkable is its community-centered approach,” explained City Councillor Harvinder Gill. “The volunteers here understand that food security isn’t just about providing meals—it’s about preserving dignity and creating pathways toward stability.”
Inside the facility, visitors find more than just food supplies. The organization has incorporated counseling services, employment resources, and educational programs designed to address root causes of food insecurity. These comprehensive services reflect the Sikh principle of selfless service, or “seva,” which guides the organization’s mission.
“Many people visiting food banks today never imagined they would need this kind of support,” noted Amrit Kaur, the facility’s volunteer coordinator. “We’re seeing working professionals, seniors on fixed incomes, and young families all struggling with the impossible mathematics of today’s cost of living.”
The food bank’s launch comes at a critical time as Canadian food prices continue their upward trajectory. Recent data from Statistics Canada indicates grocery costs have risen nearly 19% over the past three years, pushing more households toward difficult choices between food and other necessities.
Community response has been overwhelming. Local businesses and regional organizations have stepped forward with donations and support, enabling the food bank to stock its shelves ahead of anticipated high demand.
“What’s happening here represents the best of our community values,” said Delta Mayor George Harvie during his address to volunteers and supporters. “When challenges seem insurmountable, we find solutions together.”
As the Guru Nanak Food Bank establishes its presence in North Delta, the question emerging for many community leaders goes beyond immediate hunger relief: How can we build more resilient communities where food security becomes a sustainable reality rather than an ongoing crisis?
