By Brenda Gibson
I’m eating as I write this. I’ve been known to eat even when I’m not hungry. In fact, I rarely miss a meal – and when I do, it’s never because I can’t afford it.
The Semiahmoo Peninsula is considered by many to be an affluent region in the GVRD – so it’s likely that the majority of you reading this can relate. We typically enjoy three (or more) square meals a day, often without a second thought. However, not everyone in our communities is quite so blessed. The statistics and the stories are shocking. But there are actions Rotarians are taking to help – and we’d love to have your support! Here are a few things we’re doing to feed the hungry in our community that will benefit from your involvement.
On May 14, all five Rotary clubs on the Peninsula will join forces to host the third annual 5 Club Pancake Breakfast. As in past years, all funds raised will benefit Sources Food Bank Resources Centre. Held at the First United Church (15385 Semiahmoo Ave.) from 8:30–11 a.m., this sit-down, full-plated breakfast includes pancakes, eggs, sausage, bacon, orange juice, apple juice, coffee and tea.
To welcome the Muslim community, halal and appropriate seating will also be available.
Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at C&K Courtesy Cleaners in Windsor Square (139–1959 152 St.) or at the door. (Non-perishable food donations gratefully accepted.)
Every fall since 2010, the Semiahmoo club sells Safeway gift cards. The purchaser pays the face value and can then use the cards at any Safeway location for their regular purchases. To date, this fund raiser has produced more than $16,000 for the local food bank.
The club also purchases these gift cards to include in the 20-30 food hampers they prepare for families in the Atira group at Christmas. This coming fall, the club is pleased to be working along with local Save-On Foods stores and Sources to bring the fundraiser to the next level. Keep your eyes peeled and purchase gift cards from a Rotarian to support this wonderful cause. If you use the cards for your everyday grocery purchases, participation costs you nothing more than you would usually spend!
The Peace Arch club supports Sources as well, by holding special donation weeks, especially at Christmas. The club also has a number of members who support Covenant House, which provides food, shelter, clothing and counselling to more than 1,500 homeless and runaway youth each year.
Rotary clubs feed not just stomachs, but spirits as well!
The SASSY Awards build a stronger community by celebrating and supporting exceptional youth for outstanding contributions locally and internationally.
The 6th annual SASSY Awards Show will take place at the Surrey Arts Centre on May 13.
The evening showcases phenomenal local youth talent from 70 nominees, culminating in the announcement of recipients of awards in seven categories.
Doors open at 7:30 p.m.; show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets, $15/adults, $10/students, are available through the box office at the Surrey Arts Centre or you can become a Friend of SASSY at semiahmoorotary.org
Brenda Gibson writes monthly on behalf of the Semiahmoo Peninsula’s five Rotary Clubs.
