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BC Liquor Distribution Branch raises record $1.1 million for Food Banks BC

Published 11:41 PST, Wed January 29, 2025
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With thanks to the generosity of customers at BCLIQUOR (BCL) and BC Cannabis Stores (BCCS), the BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) raised more than $1.1 million during its 2024 Food Banks BC Holiday Campaign. The 2024 holiday campaign, which ran from November 12 to December 31, 2024, marks the most raised during a single LDB Food Banks BC campaign.
Since initiation of the partnership in April 2020, BCL and BCCS have collected a total of more than $6 million in donations for Food Banks BC, the provincial association of food banks. During annual campaigns held in the spring and winter, customers are invited to donate $1 or more while visiting any BCL or BCCS, with donations benefiting the food bank in the community where the funds are raised.
“I would like to acknowledge the generosity of the people of British Columbia for giving back to their neighbours in need,” said the Honourable Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “I also want to recognize the role of BCLIQUOR and BC Cannabis Stores in supporting safe and strong communities through the revenues they generate for public services, their promotion of the responsible use of alcohol and cannabis, and their partnerships with charitable organizations like Food Banks BC.”
“The LDB is honoured to support food banks in the communities we serve across the province, particularly during a time when the need for their services is heightened,” said Blain Lawson, general manager and chief executive officer of the LDB. “Through these regular campaigns, we continue to be heartened by the enthusiastic support of our customers and the efforts of Food Banks BC to provide much-needed assistance to members of their community.”
“The incredible generosity of donors to the LDB’s 2024 holiday campaign has raised the equivalent of over two million meals. We are deeply grateful for this support in a time of unprecedented demand for food bank services,” said Dan Huang-Taylor, executive director of Food Banks BC. “The importance of Food Banks BC's partnership with the LDB in raising vital funds and awareness cannot be overstated.”
Food banks across the province are facing record-breaking client numbers. Monthly visits to food banks have increased by 15 per cent in the last two years, and over 80 per cent in the last six years. Cost of food is one of the leading reasons clients are accessing food banks.
BCL and BCCS will next support Food Banks BC through their annual spring campaign in April 2025.