When we talk about food security, we are not only talking about access to food. We are talking about dignity, connection, and community care. Earlier this year, the Parksville-Qualicum Community Foundation was proud to support a local initiative that reflects all three.
With the support of a PQCF Community Fund grant, Oceanside Community Church partnered with Nanaimo Foodshare to strengthen food access through the Good Food Box program, while also ensuring that households could access protein as part of their weekly food support.
What the Grant Made Possible
Over a three-month period, this funding helped make an immediate and meaningful difference in the Oceanside community.
Approximately 50 local households received greatly subsidized weekly Good Food Box bags, while protein options were made available each week to 85 depot clients. Families, seniors, and individuals living on fixed incomes were able to access fresh produce, staple items, and extras such as eggs and yogurt for just $5 per week.
The timing of the program was especially meaningful. As the initiative rolled out locally, Nanaimo Foodshare released a video highlighting the Good Food Box partnership and its impact across the region.
Voices From the Community
The most powerful measure of impact often comes directly from the people being served. Participants shared how much the program meant to them and their families.
“This program has been a lifesaver for my kids and I. We’re so grateful and love the beautiful way we’re received each week.”
“We are seniors on a fixed income and this helps us a lot. The value is amazing.”
“I love the variety in produce, the weekly recipes, and the extras like eggs and yogurt. Thank you so much for organizing this. It’s such a great program for our community.”
One parent also shared how the program created small but meaningful moments of connection, from weekly popcorn dates with their child to seeing their eight-year-old help seniors open doors and carry food bags. These moments remind us that food programs do more than nourish bodies. They help build belonging.
Strengthening Regional Collaboration
In addition to meeting immediate food needs, the grant created space for deeper collaboration across the region.
As Oceanside Community Church explored how best to use the funding, new relationships were formed with other local food providers. These conversations opened up important dialogue about where needs still exist, which populations may be underserved, how organizations can reduce duplication, and how the region can work together more effectively.
These insights and relationships will continue to inform food security efforts in Oceanside well beyond the life of this grant.
Why This Matters
At PQCF, we believe local giving is most impactful when it supports community-led solutions and trusted partnerships. This project is a strong example of how flexible funding can address immediate needs while also strengthening long-term collaboration and learning.
To our donors, thank you for making this work possible. To our community partners, thank you for the care and commitment you bring to Oceanside every day.
Together, we are growing stronger communities through giving.
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