GURU Nanak Food Bank says that this holiday season, when families should be celebrating with warmth and dignity, it is facing the highest decline in donations in its history. At the same time, the demand for food assistance is at an all-time high.

“We are deeply concerned,” says a spokesperson for the food bank.

Every month, Guru Nanak Food Bank serves over 21,000 recipients through its three major locations – Surrey, Delta, and Kennedy Seniors Centre. It is open to everyone, without any boundary, discrimination, or government funding. Right now, shelves are emptying faster than they can be filled, and donations that usually increase during the holiday and festival season have instead dropped drastically.

“This is one of the toughest times for Canadian families in recent history. Rising rents, food inflation, job insecurity, and winter expenses are pushing thousands of hardworking families to the edge. Parents are arriving at our doors ashamed, seniors are skipping meals, and children are coming to us hungry. As Christmas approaches, the fear we hear most is: “Will there be enough food for our kids on Christmas?”” the food bank says in a message to the media, adding: “This is a heartbreaking question that no family should have to ask.”

The food bank says: “At this moment, we urgently need the support of the community. Even a small donation can bring smiles, relief, and dignity to families who are struggling to survive.

“Guru Nanak Food Bank has always stood as a first responder during every crisis, including wildfires, floods, and economic downturns. We never turn anyone away. But today, we need help to keep this promise alive.”