Media Releases

VICTORIA, B.C.  – Investing in well-being of our region’s most vulnerable residents makes our community healthier

For many, summer is a carefree time of year with fresh produce readily available at grocery stores and local farmer’s markets. However, there are many people in our community who aren’t able to procure enough food for themselves or their families. The demand has created a greater need at area food banks than their current food supplies are able to meet.

To help spread the word about the need to invest in the wellbeing of vulnerable residents, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with The Mustard Seed in support of food banks across the region.

“As many of you know, The Mustard Seed operates the largest food bank on Vancouver Island, and during the summer months, donations slow down significantly,” Mustard Seed Executive Director Treska Watson said. “This leaves the food bank shelves dangerously low, especially in canned goods, just when the need for food security is at its peak. Our goal is to raise both funds and canned goods to ensure that no family goes hungry this summer.”

The Chamber surveys its membership annually to help stay current and understand advocacy priorities for local businesses. Awareness of Food Security challenges facing our region has increased in recent years. Local businesses are also concerned about affordability issues facing many customers and employees, as well as the need to support people facing challenges that can lead to social instability.

“Business people are incredibly compassionate and committed to improving the quality of life for others,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “Speaking with Chamber members daily, I’m amazed at how supportive businesses are of others even though they receive constant appeals for help. We’re asking our business community to raise awareness about this issue so that those in a position to invest in this solution are aware of the need.”

The Mustard Seed’s summer campaign — “Hunger Doesn’t Go on Vacation. Neither Do We.” — will roll out over the next few weeks and hopes to raise awareness of hunger throughout the region, including areas served by other food banks that are also facing increased demand.

To get involved:
1. Call The Mustard Seed at 778-677-1335 or email volunteer@mustardseed.ca and talk to Claudia.
2. Receive Materials: We will drop off signage and instructions at your business.
3. Set Up: Place a donation box with QR Code for monetary donations at your business.
4. Scheduled Pick-Up: The Mustard Seed will pick up the donation box on a scheduled day.
Participating businesses will receive a special sticker, letting clients know that you support food security in our community. Your participation not only helps those in need but also strengthens community bonds and enhances your business’s reputation as a socially responsible entity.