VANCOUVER – The Association of South Asian Professionals of British Columbia (ASAP) with generous support from the Real Canadian Superstore on Marine Drive and Tim Hortons on Commercial Drive fed hundreds on Saturday at Oppenheimer Park in East Vancouver.
It was a sunny day as hundreds of hot dogs were served up to a long line-up of needy people. A dozen ASAP volunteers happily distributed hot dogs, cookies and coffee. There was used clothing in good condition along with footwear for the less fortunate. By raising awareness, ASAP hopes others will join in to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the approximately 2,300 homeless people in Vancouver.
Food and supplies for the event were kindly donated by Real Canadian Superstore on Marine Drive: “We believe in giving back to the community through good causes like this one with the Association of South Asian Professionals of BC,” said Remo Mastropieri, Manager; Real Canadian Superstore. Coffee and related supplies were once again kindly donated by Tim Hortons on Commercial Drive owner Mandeep Kandola who said “I am pleased to offer my continued support to ASAP in its endeavours to give back to the community and help the less fortunate”.
Saturday’s event was extra special for ASAP members as they were joined by their children. Helping the community and trying to be good role models for the next generation, the hope is that they develop life-long habits of giving back to the community for the betterment of all. Simone Phull, an 8 year old volunteer commented: “I enjoyed volunteering with my dad because we were able to help others.”
“After eight years of organizing these events at Oppenheimer Park, there is still a tremendous need for such events. Many thanks to Superstore on Marine Drive and Tim Hortons on Commercial Drive for their generous support. We could not continue to hold these events without the support of such great corporate citizens. ASAP and its members are doing their part by getting involved, giving back to the community and raising awareness. We encourage and challenge others to go out into the community and help others or better yet join us to make a difference” states Mr. Jindy Bhalla, President of ASAP.
ASAP strives to recruit individuals who are looking to make a difference. To learn how you can make a difference, please contact ASAP’s President: Jindy Bhalla at [email protected], visit our Facebook page or log onto our website www.asapbc.com