Did you know that in Canada, nearly 58% of all food produced is lost or wasted each year? In British Columbia alone, millions of tonnes of food are wasted annually. At The Salvation Army Harbour Light, we’re proud to be part of the solution through our Food Recovery Program, which rescues surplus food from local supermarkets and redistributes it to those who need it most.

What We Do: Our team works hard to recover surplus food from grocery stores and food suppliers. Instead of this perfectly good food ending up in landfills, we ensure it reaches people in need. Once the food is collected, we sort and distribute it to various community programs across BC, including shelters, food banks, and services for the homeless.

Through our partnerships with family services, food banks, and organizations that support homeless individuals and those struggling with addiction, this rescued food provides essential nutrition to vulnerable people in our community. At The Salvation Army Harbour Light, our programs also support individuals in shelters, transitional housing, and those overcoming addiction, offering them a path to stability and a healthier future.

Our Impact: Every pound of food we rescue means more meals for families, individuals in shelters, and those who are struggling. This food not only nourishes, but it also brings hope and a sense of security to those facing difficult times. Our program extends beyond our local community—we share food with other Salvation Army Ministry Units and partner organizations across BC to make sure the impact reaches as many people as possible.

By reducing food waste, we are not only helping the environment but also taking significant steps in the fight against food insecurity. Every meal we serve represents a moment of relief and dignity for someone in need.

Contact David.Yang@salvationarmy.ca if you are interested in being a food donor. Together, we’re turning food waste into food security!

–David Yang, Regional Food Distribution Manager