Prince Rupert Salvation Army partnered with the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s (PRPA) Community Investment Fund to open a new community kitchen, according to a press release.

“We are now equipped with new tools and the space necessary to offer a greater level of service through our Continuum-of-Care model,” said Lieutenant Dawn Butt, Prince Rupert Salvation Army.

“We are grateful for the outstanding support and commitment from the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s Community Investment Fund, which allows our organization to open this new chapter in its history on the North Coast.” 

The project will enable the non-profit organization to relocate the Community Food Bank and combine its many services and programs under one roof. This redevelopment project is expected to cost over $1.15 million. About 40 percent of that sum ($450,000) will be funded by PRPA.

“The Salvation Army has played a vital role in Prince Rupert for over four decades, providing nutritious meals and food through its soup kitchen and food bank that serve the needs of the most vulnerable in our community,” said Shaun Stevenson, President and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority.

“This project enables them to deliver those critical services more efficiently and continue to promote healthy living and development amongst individuals and families.”

The updated kitchen will be larger and will have the capacity to feed a greater number of people. Upgrades will include a commercial-grade kitchen, a walk-in freezer and fridge, as well as new kitchen equipment and supplies.

PRPA and the Salvation Army will host will together host a “Soup for the Soul” event to celebrate the opening of the updated kitchen on March 3, 2023.