Metro Vancouver gurdwara and Sikh-run food bank offering welcome package for new international students

A Metro Vancouver gurdwara and Sikh-run foodbank are working together to ensure international students new to BC receive basic supplies and necessities free of charge.

The Guru Nanak Food Bank (GNFB) and Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib in Surrey have partnered up to distribute the Welcome to Canada packages, which include a free mattress, blanket, pillow, bedsheet, pillow cover, and free groceries.

Narinder Singh Walia, president and director of Guru Nanak Food Bank, told the Beacon that the program started back in November 2019.

“The first need for new arrivals in Canada is [a] bed,” he said. “So we start with basic help so we can engage with [the students].”

Walia added that the program is open to international students from all backgrounds in need of help in any part of Metro Vancouver.

“Our tag-line is ‘recognize all human race as one,’” he said, adding that GNFB believes in “no boundaries” and “anyone from anywhere” can reach out to receive assistance or support.

As for the free groceries, Walia explained that Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran established a fulltime food bank for the community in July 2020. The food bank is in a separate building from the gurdwara, so anyone can come in at any time and grab the food items they need.

“The grocery is for anyone, not just international students,” he stated.

Walia said all the food donations have been made possible thanks to the help of the local community as well as “a big contribution” from the gurdwara.

Any international student looking to access the welcome packages or anyone in need of assistance from the GNFB or Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran can get in touch by calling 1-604-580-1313 or emailing [email protected]. Walia added that GNFB is also looking for volunteers to help with outreach. Those interested can learn more here.

Get Burnaby Beacon in your inbox.An in-depth understanding of the stories that affect Burnaby and beyond, every weekday.