For Thrifty Foods Admirals Walk, giving back to the community isn’t just a seasonal activity, it’s a core value. This year, the grocery store is teaming up with the Mustard Seed Street Church to deliver 500 turkey dinners to individuals and families facing food insecurity.
The event, scheduled from Nov. 30 was an afternoon filled camaraderie and holiday spirit.
“We’ve partenered with Mustard Seed because we see how many people are in need at this time of the year,” says store manager Petra Sibbald. “A good meal to celebrate the occasion is important for everyone. It’s the least we can do to give back.”
This event provided a sit-down turkey dinner complete with plate service, activities for kids like gingerbread decorating, and access to various support services.
Sibbald, alongside Fairfield Thrifty Foods store manager Ray Gudmundson are spearheading the effort with a team of 30 to 40 volunteers from several locations, including Thirfty Foods Fairfield, James Bay, Cloverdale, Tuscany and Quadra, helping with holiday decorating, meal prep, set-up, serving and cleanup. She notes that the sense of satisfaction in helping others is palpable among staff and participants alike.
“It’s heart-satisfying to give back to the community,” Sibbald says. “We're excited about the opportunity to make a difference. When we serve meals, people are so thankful. Everyone deserves to have holiday festivities.”
This effort builds on a longstanding partnership with Mustard Seed. Thrifty Foods regularly donates surplus food to the organization, which transforms it into meals, hampers, and breakfast programs for schools.
“It’s motivating to see how much food we give to Mustard Seed every day,” Sibbald explains. “Knowing it’s repurposed and benefits so many people instead of going to waste is incredible.”
Admirals Walk’s community efforts go beyond food drives. From beach cleanups to supporting local schools and sports teams, the store has cultivated strong ties within View Royal and surrounding areas. These connections, Sibbald says, are deeply rewarding.
“We are proud to be part of the community, people know our faces, and we build instant connections," she says.
For Sibbald and her team, the coming event is a highlight of their year.
“We’re really looking forward to it,” she says. “Knowing that 500 people will be fed and looked after, even if just for a day, is incredibly satisfying. It’s about putting their problems to the side and letting them enjoy the holiday spirit.”
For more information, visit thriftyfoods.com or visit in person at 1495 Admirals Road!