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Earth Month Highlights  This Earth Day, People for a Healthy Community (PHC) is proud to highlight our commitment to reducing food waste while supporting the Gabriola community. In addition to our Weekly Grocery Program, PHC runs a food recovery and diversion program that ensures donated food is used responsibly and sustainably. Volunteers carefully sort incoming donations into three streams: food for people, food for animals, and compost for gardens.  Food suitable for peopl

March is Nutrition Month in Canada—a time to reflect on how food supports our health, well-being, and connection to one another. As we move out of winter, many are thinking about fresh starts and healthier routines. But for some in our community, the question isn’t what to eat—it’s whether there is enough. Rising food costs are straining Canadian households. In 2026, the average family of four will spend nearly $17,571 on food—up $994.63 in a year—while the average income

February is Anti-Bullying Month, a time to reflect on how bullying shows up in schools, workplaces, and communities. While bullying is often associated with playgrounds and classrooms, community leaders say it also exists in quieter, less visible ways — including the shame and stigma surrounding food bank use. That sense of judgment often prevents people from seeking support, even when they need it most. In many people’s eyes, using a food bank is still seen as a personal fai

Dec 3, 2025 | News , Sounder News (article) WRITER: Tami Smith , Food Program Coordinator People for a Healthy Community I am writing to clarify a common misconception about Food Banks. During a recent vaccine appointment, the nurse made friendly small talk while preparing the injection. She asked what I do for a living, and I proudly replied that I run the Weekly Food Program—also known as the food bank—at People for a Healthy Community (PHC). Her immediate response was, “Oh

As the Remembrance Tree  at the Gabriola Library becomes a cherished December tradition on the Island, it is an honour to reflect on the first years of this People for a Healthy Community (PHC) – Community Care and Home Hospice project. Our first PHC Hospice Program staff lead in 2019 had a vision — a tender and heartfelt one. She recognized that the holiday season can be difficult for many, a time when we feel the absence of those we’ve lost even more deeply. She wanted to c

Thanks to the generosity of our community and the support of local donors, a total of $10,968 was raised for Gabriola Island charities.