Majors Diane and Glynden Cross, corps officers at Surrey Community Church, B.C., have always been passionate about ensuring food security. Over the past year, they launched a program called “Food Matters,” which helps clients access snacks. It also raises awareness about The Salvation Army’s services for those who may be unfamiliar with them, particularly newcomers who have recently arrived in the city.

“We have a huge immigrant population here in Surrey who know nothing about The Salvation Army,” says Major Diane. “It is about food security first and foremost, but we are also introducing people to The Salvation Army.”

The current initiative provides snacks, beverages and conversation around food security, and builds relationships with students from a nearby high school. Holding it twice a week in the parking lot of The Salvation Army makes it accessible for students as they walk home from school.

“There are lots of people out there who aren’t using our services and are still seeking food security, so we are trying to reach teenagers and talk to them,” Major Diane says. “We want to engage with the students so they feel comfortable around The Salvation Army. It’s about introducing a whole new generation to what the Army does.”

Understanding the Army’s services encourages students to inform their parents about any assistance they may require. It also inspires them to complete their community service hours by volunteering with the Army.

“We are hoping that as they mature and become adults, they’re going to remember and then they are going to teach their children,” she adds.

In January, Food Matters introduced a new initiative, hosting cooking classes three times weekly for children between seven and 11. There are also plans to form a gardening group that teaches clients how to grow herbs and spices for their everyday meals. As Food Matters continues to grow, more initiatives will be introduced.

"We can’t stay stagnant here in Surrey. We are the second largest city in British Columbia, and we must build off that,” Major Glynden says.

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