Kimberley Helping Hands Food Bank
The Kimberley Helping Hands Food Bank has been a non-profit organization since 1984.
Our History
The Helping Hands Food Bank began as a humble bus before its founders took the bold step of hand-digging a basement at All Saints Church on Leadenhall Avenue. Registered as a charity in 1985, this volunteer – driven organization spent nearly four decades providing essential food services to those in need. When the bus was eventually sold, the proceeds were wisely invested, contributing to the funding for the food bank’s new building.
In 2023, with the church’s future uncertain, the board of directors made the thoughtful and courageous decision to purchase a property of their own. Thanks to a generous private donation, a compassionate purchase price, a substantial grant from Columbia Basin Trust, and countless hours of volunteer work, the organization was able to convert a former automotive garage into a modern food bank facility.
Today, the Helping Hands Food Bank operates at its new, large location on Knighton Road, with the potential of offering a wider range of services and situated on an acre of property. The food bank has exciting plans for further development, ensuring it can continue to better serve the community in the years ahead.
Our Values
At our food bank, we are driven by a deep compassion for those affected by hunger, recognizing both the challenges it creates and the hardships it causes. We believe in the power of collaboration, knowing that by working together with others, we can achieve greater results and make a lasting impact. Our commitment to accountability ensures that we utilize the resources entrusted to us as efficiently and effectively as possible, thereby maximizing our positive impact. Above all, we foster a culture of respect, valuing inclusiveness and mutual understanding in all that we do.
Our Mission
- We serve to relieve hunger and increase food security, together with our community.
- We create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space where we strive to provide healthy food.
- We support those in need with nutrition education and relevant information.
- We utilize all our assets to operate as an effective and sustainable organization so we can achieve our vision.
Board Of Directors
Staff
Kimberley Cranbrook Food Network
We are a member of the Kimberley Cranbrook Food Network, a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing food security in the East Kootenay region of British Columbia. Established in 2021 with support from the United Way BC Regional Food Hub program, it unites local organizations, non-profits, and community members to develop sustainable, community-driven solutions to food insecurity.
Food Recovery Depot
We collaborate with the Kimberley Food Recovery Depot to improve overall food access and better serve those in need in our community.
