Local organization helps feed Vancouver’s most vulnerable

The rising cost of groceries is taking a toll on Vancouver’s most vulnerable, according to one expert.

But one group is hoping its first in-person fundraiser in years will help meet the food demand in the city.

“The rising cost of food has not only affected all of us in our day-to-day lives, but it’s really affecting those most vulnerable, our marginalized populations,” Lisa Martella, the executive director at A Loving Spoonful, said.

Volunteers scoop butter chicken into a container. (Crystal Laderas/CityNews)

“It’s our job to really step up and make sure we get food out to people that need it,” Martella added.

A Loving Spoonful provides free meals to people living with HIV and co-existing illnesses around the Metro Vancouver region.

The volunteer-driven organization serves up to 15,000 meals per month, and despite the rising food prices, has maintained a $7 price per meal.

Outside of the organization A Loving Spoonful. (Crystal Laderas/CityNews)

The group says it has been delivering meals to HIV and AIDS patients for over 30 years.

On Friday, the group’s event The Great Big Give Holiday Breakfast is set to happen, and all donations will help support the group’s programs and a new kitchen on the Downtown Eastside.

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“We are in a crisis with food security,” Martella explained. “I think that’s going to mean so much for our community and we’re going to be able to provide even more meals once that kitchen is up and running.”

The drop-in style holiday breakfast is a fundraising event presented by CityNews 1130 and Scotiabank, and runs from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Find more information about the fundraiser breakfast here.

CityNews 1130 is a proud sponsor of The Great Big Give in support of A Loving Spoonful.