04 Apr GRANTING IMPACT: Kitchen Upgrade at the Seniors Centre

Established in 1976, the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre (SSAC) is a volunteer-driven organization that provides activ­ities and services in support of the independence and well-being of its members, including an affordable and nutritious meal service program prepared by Chef Emily McPherson and team. For many, the kitchen is ‘the heart’ of the SSAC, which plays an important role in complementing the food security needs of seniors in the community.

Every year, the SSAC serves approximately 35,000 meals to its members, so a trustworthy commercial dishwasher is absolutely essential. At over 22 years old, the SSAC’s previous dishwasher was not up to the task. With poor heating control, it failed to pass inspection, and its outdated model made sourcing replacement parts almost impossible.

With a Responsive Community Grant of $4,990 from the Foundation in 2022, the SSAC was able to jump-start its campaign to acquire a new commercial dishwasher, furthering the continuation and expansion of their essential, and much-loved, kitchen service.

We’re pleased to share that the much-needed piece of equipment has been up and running since late January and our Board Chair, Manjit Kang, was invited to the SSAC for its ceremonial inauguration.

So far, the new commercial dishwasher has made a tremendous impact on the organization, not only by streamlining their food services, but also by improving energy consumption and reducing paper and plastic waste. Congratulations to the SSAC!

To learn more about grants available to local Sunshine Coast charities, please visit our Responsive Community Grants page. Don’t forget to join our mailing list and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

L to R: Alison Kowalewski (SSAC Treasurer), Sahra Hailey, Manjit Kang (Chair, Sunshine Coast Foundation), Chef Emily (photo courtesy of the SSAC).

Chef Emily with the new dishwasher (photo courtesy of the SSAC).