Edible Vancouver Island July/August 2024

us that he saw they had a new monthly donor and he wanted to reach out to them, so he looked them up on Facebook and sent them a message to thank them for their generosity. He then reads us their response: "Thank you! You helped us when my family was in need and now it’s my time to give back. We don't have much but we will give what we can." There are many stories like this one. From helping seniors, to those with varying disabilities to young families, Fateh Care makes a huge difference. “I love seeing the impact Fateh Care has on the people we help. We don’t always meet the people we give the food to but when we do and we see the joy in their eyes, it’s wonderful,” Navneet says with a huge smile. “I remember one woman we met who had six children. When we gave her food she started crying and hugged us so much, and that’s the kind of impact that warms our hearts and the kind of stories that make you realize you actually made an impact in somebody's life–you actually helped somebody! There's this feeling that is beyond words, that's what keeps us going.” Today, Fateh Care continues to receive requests every day for food. Even though both Harjas and Navneet work

full time, they honour those requests and deliver food and supplies to those in need. While they now have a few volunteers and a few paid staff, they do most of the deliveries themselves. “Fateh Care, and those who are part of our charity, are trying our level best to make sure we are building the kind of caring community where people are accepted the way they are," says Harjas. "Asking for help is not easy, and we tell everyone who does ask for help, don't worry about it, you can relax–we will get you what you need. This is what we’re trying to build here.” Karen Elgersma is the publisher of Edible Vancouver Island and loves volunteering at Living Edge, a market that provides groceries and fresh produce to local residents. She is honoured to be part of this generous community and enjoys sharing recipes, stories and laughs with the many wonderful people who come each week to the market. Thank yo u Harjas and Navneet for all you do and for inspiring all of us to care. If you are interested in donating to the Fateh Care Charity or volunteering, please reach out to Harjas. www.fatehcare.com +1 (587) 889-2700 | wecare@fatehcare.com

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42 JUL/AUG 2024 EDIBLE VANCOUVER ISLAND