FISH of Vancouver

CAST THE NET WIDE - FISH of Vancouver is continuing its mission to end hunger in Vancouver. 

Last April, we reopened with a new shopping-style pantry, following our diligent service to those experiencing food scarcity and adapting to socially distanced protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our guests now have the convenience of shopping with grocery carts and browsing shelves, coolers, and freezers stocked with a variety of items such as meat, produce, dairy, canned goods, and more. They can select what they need based on their families' preferences and dietary requirements. In addition to providing a calm atmosphere, FISH’s redesign allows for a dignified shopping experience. 

Last year we participated in Give More 24! (Now GiveBIG), and and at the end of the day we raised well over $100,000 from local donations to help provide direct support for those in need of nutritious and necessary food. We want to bring that same energy and generosity into this year’s fundraiser – and we are excited for you to join us in achieving that goal.

In June of 2022 we also added a Mobile Food Pantry to travel with food where the need is greatest! Thanks to the generous donations from Hurley Development, Crossroads Community Church, LSW Architects, Specialty Graphic Solutions, and Riff Creative Studio, we purchased and professionally converted a large delivery truck into a "FISH on the Move" vehicle that is outfitted with a refrigerator, freezer and shelving to hold nutritious foods. Watch for our colorful truck (think flying fruits and vegetables) in the community!

Looking to the future, FISH is planning to expand its pantry into new space – this way we can increase the number of meals, services, and resources we provide to the community. You have the opportunity to be part of that growth, as we cast our net wider and continue to support and sustain those in need with nourishment. FISH’s growth translates into more resources to help us help others, additional room to store and provide food, and more opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many. 

The need for food is growing – both 2022 and 2023 have seen soaring grocery costs and an increased cost of living. Our client numbers are skyrocketing – and show no signs of slowing down. With inflation and high cost of local housing and other living expenses, a record number of people are lining up outside our door. 

In 2022 we fed approximately 6,000 people each month and in those first three months of operating the new shopping-style pantry, we distributed 290,000 pounds of food! From the end of 2022 through the early months of 2023, we have seen the number of people who rely on FISH for sustenance increase to an average of 7,000 per month.

Our Cast The Net Wide Project offers you an opportunity to support families in need. By making a donation, you can help ensure that our shelves are well-stocked with nutritious foods for family meals, and our programs have a greater impact on the community. Your contribution can help ensure that families and individuals have access to ample and nourishing foods, promoting their health and well-being. During GiveBIG, consider donating to FISH of Vancouver, and your donation will be matched by our generous matching donors. With your support, we can empower our local hungry families to stand strong and remain healthy.

YOU have the power to make a difference! Thank you for your valuable support!

Support FISH of Vancouver here on GiveBIG or by donating directly to us online!