The Canadian Chinese Taoism Kuan-Kung Association, in collaboration with PCN (Primary Care Network), has launched a Community Fridge to address the food insecurity crisis. Many families and individuals have suffered from rising food costs since the pandemic, and the Community Fridge offers free food items on a regular basis, from non-perishable goods to grocery items, to snacks and bento boxes.

The Community Fridge was officially open to the public in June. During the opening ceremony, the Mayor of Burnaby and numerous city council members expressed their appreciation and admiration for the intiative. The community residents who gathered to witness the event also shared their gratitude. We extend our thanks to our generous sponsors, including CM Trading Co. Ltd., Yuanchu Food, Sweet Thea Bakery, Xian Duo Duo Food, and other local businesses.

We would also like to take this time to acknowledge the contribution of Jeffrey Yu from Tian-Jin Temple, who has, over the years, tirelessly dedicated himself to improving Tian-Jin Temple’s community services. He spearheaded the Community Fridge initiative and brought together volunteers to make their vision a reality. In fact, university students were recruited to construct the fridge platform and shelving, as well as assist with the funding application process. They even braved the hot weather to paint the wooden shed holding the fridge, to make it more appealing and welcoming to the public. Other contributors include the elderly residents and neighbours, who provided valuable suggestions and feedback on the rules, regulation, and signage.

Mayor Mike Hurley, Anne Kang – MLA, Burnaby Deer Lake, Minister of Advanced Education, and Richard – Deer Lake Youth Council, among others, attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the community fridge.

Community residents and Tian-Jin Temple volunteers eagerly gathered early to participate and assist in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The food items filling the fridge and storage shelves that day were all generously donated by local businesses, showcasing their acts of kindness.