Last year, BGC South Vancouver Island served more than 49,400 meals and snacks to local children. Thanks to the team at the James Bay Thrifty Foods, those efforts will get at least a little easier.
The store recently donated gift cards to the non-profit organization previously known as the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Victoria, one of the leading providers of child and youth services in Greater Victoria.
The latest donation is part of an ongoing relationship that recognizes both the grocer's unique place at the heart of the community, and the organization's vital work to support local children and youth.
"As a food retailer, issues around food insecurity are really important to us," says Daryl Fediw, manager at the Simcoe Street store. "And we really appreciate all the BGC team does to both support children and families, and to alleviate the stigma around food insecurity."
For 65 years, BGC South Vancouver Island has helped kids get to the same starting line.
"Our Clubs see firsthand how profoundly and disproportionately food insecurity impacts kids," says Executive Director Arianna Scott. "And the need in our Clubs continues to rise without the resources to meet them."
While young bodies need nutrients to thrive, one in three children across Canada are living in food-insecure households, Scott notes, thanking Thrifty Foods for their support.
"Young people with full bellies can think better, perform better, learn better and make better decisions. Without food security, nothing else is possible. Donations like this one from Thrifty Foods to help our Clubs support children and youth are essential to us continuing to meet the need so kids in our communities don’t go hungry."
To support that mission, the organization is continuing its 2025 fundraiser, Snacks for Jacks, where every dollar provides food to nourish young minds and bodies. Donations can be made online at bgcsvi.org/snacks-for-jacks-fundraiser-2025/ with gifts of $20 or more eligible for a tax receipt.
"This is our next generation, our future leaders, and we want to help ensure their success," Fediw says. "If we can support these essential local organizations at work in our community and help provide healthy nutrition for children and families, we're absolutely going to do that."
Visit James Bay Thrifty Foods in the heart of the village at 475 Simcoe St. from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.