Gordon Neighbourhood House is recognized as a leader in food-based community development. We build and sustain health, vibrant and just communities through the transformative power of food. Our approach to food access is articulated by our Food Philosophy.

Gordon Neighbourhood House is committed to providing Downtown-West End residents with practical and equitable access to healthy, nutritious and culturally appropriate food. We work collaboratively with local organizations and businesses to deliver a broad range of food justice programs. This includes sit-down and delivery meals, community kitchens, community gardens, cooking classes, kids community kitchens, neighbourhood dinners and much more.

In addition, Gordon Neighbourhood House is committed to working with community, funders and partners to meaningfully address rising levels of food insecurity in the Downtown-West End by leading a sustained focus on causes of local food insecurity. This includes addressing shortages in childcare, unaffordable housing, impacts of gentrification, inaccessibility within social services, etc. We encourage our neighbours to get involved.

Seniors looking to participate in a regular social program with meals may be interested in our TAPS program. Families looking for a regular breakfast program may be interested in our Before-Care program.

Our Food Philosophy

Gordon Neighbourhood House uses food to nourish our community in a variety of ways, including the facilitation of intercultural exchange and dialogue, community capacity-building, and community development

Food Philosophy Principles

An understanding that food brings us together and can act as vehicle for community-building.
A recognition that all members of our community have a Right to Food based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, while also acknowledging that we as a community enjoy various levels of access to food.
A commitment to sharing fresh, non-expired, healthy, and locally-sourced food whenever possible.
A commitment to sharing food that is nutrient-dense, low in refined sugar and sodium, and not overly-processed.
A commitment to working toward increased access to food for those who are nutritionally vulnerable.
A commitment to providing opportunities for increased food literacy and community capacity-building for our neighbours.
A commitment to sharing foods that reflect the diversity of our community, city, country, and world.
An awareness of the impact that our food choices have on the environment.
A commitment to the reduction of our organizational ecological footprint by minimizing packaging and ongoing composting.
Support for the development of urban farms and healthy food cooperatives.

Current Programs

Sing outside of Gordon Neighbourhood raising awareness of the Regional Community Food Hub initiative.

West End Regional
Community Food Hub

Gordon Neighbourhood House is proud to be a United Way Regional Community Food Hub. Food hubs are networks of community partners working together to improve food access by sharing resources and knowledge to deliver more reliable, inclusive, and dignified food programs.

As the Downtown Peninsula’s food hub, we are excited to bring local partners together to tackle the challenges and inequities of BC’s food system through a comprehensive, multi-sectoral, and collaborative approach. Our goals include increasing access to healthy, culturally appropriate food, advocating for long-term solutions, supporting community-led initiatives, and reducing food waste.

At the same time, we are addressing the root causes of food insecurity, such as poverty, systemic racism, inequality, and inadequate social supports. Together, we are driving systemic change and building a more food-secure future for everyone in our community.

Partner and Volunteer Opportunities

If you’re an interested partner or part of a grassroots network looking to get involved, we’d love to connect with you.

For More Information

Whether you’d like to stay informed about local food programs, share your ideas, or explore opportunities to collaborate, please reach out to Jim Balakshin at jim@gordonhouse.org.

Neighbours Enjoy a Community Lunch at Gordon Neighbourhood House.

Community Lunch Program

Everyone is invited to lunch at Gordon Neighbourhood House! Community Lunches are a great place where neighbours can enjoy a meal together, meet new people, and catch up with friends in a casual environment.

Lunches are served on Mondays and Fridays at 12:00pm. Community Chef Luca and our team of volunteers prepare a delicious three course meal including soup/salad, main course, and dessert. Lunch also includes organic, ethical bean coffee and tea.

Reservations are highly recommended for this popular program.

Details

Time

Mondays and Fridays, 12:00pm

Location

Gordon Neighbourhood House

Eligibility

Everyone is invited. Reservations are recommended, and advance notice of dietary sensitivities is required.

Cost

$7.50 with Gordon House membership

$8 without Gordon House membership

Children aged 1 and up are half price

If you face a financial barrier to attending, please contact us, and we’ll do our best to include you while ensuring your privacy.

Volunteer Opportunities

Our community lunches are served by our amazing volunteers. For more information about volunteering and to explore current opportunities, please visit our Volunteer page.

To reserve a spot for lunch, please call (604) 683-2554
or email welcome@gordonhouse.org.

Community Food Centres Canada
BC Regional Network

Are you a Good Food Member organization in British Columbia? Do you want to tackle the root causes of food insecurity, and connect with like-minded colleagues in the sector? Community Food Centres Canada (CFCC) has partnered with Gordon Neighbourhood Houses to establish an advocacy network across British Columbia.

Together, we’re advocating for increasing incomes and challenging unfair stereotypes and stigma around poverty. Contact us if you are a BC Good Food Member and would like to be involved.

Get Involved

Contact us if you are a BC Good Food Member and would like to be involved.

Sarah Common (they/she),
outreach@gordonhouse.org

School Breakfasts

We support local schools host breakfast programs that provide students with a healthy start to their day, encouraging positive eating habits, and foster a sense of community. These programs help students engage more fully in class, build connections with peers, and develop lifelong wellness habits.

Supported by the Adopt-A-School program and the United Way Regional Community Food Hub, we work together to ensure every child has access to a nutritious meal to set them up for success.

Details

Time

Weekday Mornings During the School Year

Location

Local Schools

Eligibility

Universally Available for all Enrolled Students

Cost

No Charge to Attend