Edmonton’s Sikh community raises $50K for food bank

Members of Edmonton’s Sikh community and My Radio 580 AM raised over $50,000 and additional food donations for Edmonton’s Food Bank, presenting a cheque on Sunday.

“Food is what unites us. You sit around a table with strangers, and you become friends. And so, by sharing that, and giving to others that need it, it’s just beautiful in and of itself. The Sikh community has been a long time supporter of Edmonton’s food bank,” said Tamisan Bencz-Knight, spokesperson for Edmonton’s Food Bank.

The fundraiser was organized by the Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib Edmonton, in honour of the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.

Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi thanked the Gurdwara for their efforts.

The Gurdwara says they chose the food bank because of its role in the city.

 “Food Bank plays a very important role in our society and the city. To help all, all nations, all kind of people,” said Kuldip Chana, Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib Edmonton.

Bencz-Knight says donations like this are critical to the Food Bank’s operations. Right now, the food bank is breaking even and if the demand continues at the rate that it has been, they may need to re-evaluate the way they do things.

“In 1996, we were serving 19,500 people. That was our average. That was huge for us back then, in 1996. Fast forward to 2008 when we had the boom in Alberta, lots of job opportunities, good pay, good minimum wage, those numbers dropped to 9,500. That’s 12 years, 10,000 people. Our average is over 40,000 right now. With some peaks at 47,000,” said Bencz-Knight.

While the food bank’s needs continue to grow, Bencz-Knight says if you’re able to give this holiday season, choose an organization that means something to you.

“And it might not be the food bank. If it’s a senior’s organization, find one that makes you happy. Support that organization. Find your passion, support that mission. That’s all I can ask for our community,” said Bencz-Knight.