Vancouver firefighters are stepping up in a different way by trading their helmets for aprons and delivering nutritious meals to hungry students.
Eric Himmelman, the executive director of Vancouver Firefighter Charities, shared that off-duty firefighters volunteer their time to prepare and distribute meals between their shifts.
Recently, CityNews followed Himmelman and his team as they packed 250 servings of diverse meals, including spaghetti and meatballs, beef bourguignon, and crispy tofu, destined for four schools across Vancouver.
Teaming up with Glowbal Restaurants since 2021, the firefighters have collectively served over 23,000 meals to students in need, prioritizing both nutrition and taste.
According to Alex Kim, culinary director at Glowbal, providing flavorful and nutritious meals is a top priority for their partnership with the firefighters, recognizing the significance of proper nutrition for children’s growth.
Recent data from the Vancouver school board reveals that one in five children in Vancouver attend school on an empty stomach, highlighting the crucial need for food security initiatives.
Victoria Jung, chair of the VSB, emphasized the essential role of ensuring food security for students, as hunger can hinder their ability to learn effectively. Addressing this issue not only nourishes their bodies but also their minds, promoting better educational outcomes.
Himmelman explained that through meal deliveries, teachers can pinpoint and support children who require extra assistance, ensuring they have the necessary nourishment to excel at school and beyond.
In addition to the meal delivery program, the VFC Snacks for Kids initiative has extended nutritional support to thousands of food-insecure children across more than 90 Vancouver schools and afterschool programs.