FRIENDS of PICS gala organized by the Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS), in support of PICS Diversity Village, a complex care home to be built in Cloverdale was a resounding success. With more than 700 friends of PICS attending the event held at Mirage Banquet Hall in Surrey, PICS Society was able to raise over $100,000.
The prestigious event was attended by keynote speaker Premier John Horgan, Harjit Sajjan, National Minister of Defense, provincial ministers, MLAs, city councillors, MPs and candidates for the civic elections. There was a strong presence of local businesses, media, sponsors, donors, lifetime members, volunteers, community members, Board members, seniors from PICS Assisted Living and the staff of PICS. The event had captivating performances from local artists and other sources of entertainment and included a photo booth and door prizes.

Horgan reminded the audience about how PICS started with just $80 and also praised PICS’s initiatives to recognize the need in the community. He said: “It’s just a delight to be here to celebrate all that PICS has done and will do going forward … Diversity Village is a vision that makes sure that our valued citizens are getting the care they need and deserve … I am fiercely proud to stand here today to support PICS.”
PICS CEO Satbir Cheema also thanked the community for coming out in large numbers. “I want to thank you all for attending this fundraising gala despite the Thanksgiving long weekend. If you’re here today, you have made a difference. Your support means everything to us,” he said. Cheema also thanked all sponsors, donors and members of the media who made the gala a huge success.
In a message wishing PICS for a successful fundraiser, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said: “This culturally sensitive long-term care facility provides a comfortable environment for elderly citizens where they can continue to enjoy an independent and dignified life. It is one of the many ways in which PICS supports Canada’s rich cultural diversity.”
The land procured for PICS Diversity Village passed the third reading at Surrey Council on January 22 following a public hearing and has been rezoned, subdivided and redesignated as multiple residential.