At Covenant House Vancouver, food is more than just sustenance—it’s a vital part of our continuum of care, creating a bridge of hope for the youth we serve. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that every meal is not only nourishing but is also a reflection of the respect and love we have for our youth.
A Culinary Commitment to Care
Covenant House Vancouver serves an impressive 119,080 meals per year. Our Food Services department, led by Mirabel, plays a crucial role in this endeavour. Mirabel, with her background in culinary arts, a deep passion for serving youth, and a commitment to making a difference, embodies the spirit of our mission.
Our meals are designed to meet not just the nutritional needs of the youth we serve but also their cultural preferences and dietary requirements. From hearty breakfasts like omelettes and French toast to wholesome lunches and dinners featuring pork tenderloin and roast beef, our menu is crafted to offer variety and comfort. Special events and cultural celebrations are marked with unique meals, such as Lunar New Year dinners and Kwanzaa feasts, ensuring that youth feel seen and celebrated.
The Rising Cost of Food: A Growing Challenge
Despite our commitment, the rising cost of food is placing a significant strain on our resources. Since December, we’ve observed increases in food prices that affect our ability to maintain the quality and quantity of meals we provide. Here’s a snapshot of the changes we’ve seen:
- Poultry: +4.5%
- Beef: +7%
- Eggs: +39.8%
- Rice: +6.9%
- Tea and Coffee: +10.3%
In 2023, we served close to 120,000 meals across our housing programs, Outreach and Drop-In Centre services, and newly established low-barrier programs. Each meal is a critical component of the stability and support we provide, and these rising costs are deeply felt across our organization.
The Impact of Food Beyond Nutrition
Food at Covenant House Vancouver is more than just a daily necessity—it’s a powerful tool for building trust and offering comfort. For many of the youth who come through our doors, a warm meal is a symbol of care and stability, representing a safe space where they are valued and respected.
Nutritious meals support physical health, enabling our youth to engage fully in their daily activities, whether they attend school or work. The act of serving food with care and a smile provides emotional support, helping to soothe anxiety and foster a sense of belonging.
Creating Community Through Meals
The atmosphere in our dining room is one of warmth and inclusivity. Youth are welcomed to a cafeteria-style setting where they can enjoy meals in a supportive environment. Special occasions, such as community dinners, are opportunities for youth to take pride in their cooking skills and share their culture with others.
Our dining experience is enriched by the involvement of volunteers, who bring a fresh perspective and add joy to mealtimes. Their presence and enthusiasm create moments of connection and happiness for our youth.
Celebrating Through Food
Our Food Services team goes above and beyond to celebrate various cultural and religious events. From preparing traditional dishes for Diwali and Hanukkah to hosting festive meals for holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, our kitchen staff ensure that each celebration is meaningful and inclusive.
In addition to these special events, our team works closely with community partners and donors to supplement our meal offerings. Donations of bread, cakes, and other treats are integrated into our meal plans, adding variety and delight to our menu.
A Nourishing Future
At Covenant House Vancouver, food is more than just a necessity—it’s a bridge to hope and healing. Each meal is a testament to our commitment to the well-being of the youth we serve. By providing nourishing, culturally respectful meals, we support their physical health, emotional comfort, and sense of belonging.
Your contributions, whether a financial donation, food donation, or volunteering, play a vital role in sustaining our efforts. Your generosity will help support our kitchen team and Covey’s Cupboard, which will ensure that youth in need have access to nutritious food and the resources necessary to build a better future.
Jackson is one of many youth who rely on Covey’s Cupboard, a vital service providing food support while preserving dignity. To learn more about Jackson and the food items we are need of, visit us here.
To volunteer your time, please click here to see all of our openings. To make a financial contribution, please visit our donation page here.
Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to helping youth in need. Together, we can make a world of difference.