Nourishing Hearts
擇膳養心
The Nourishing Hearts Program promotes food security, health, and connection among low-income Chinese seniors in Vancouver’s Chinatown and Strathocona Community.
Many elders face barriers such as limited mobility, financial hardship, and language isolation—making access to nutritious, culturally familiar food a challenge. Through community partnerships and ongoing outreach, Nourishing Hearts provides consistent, caring support that meets both immediate needs and fosters long-term well-being. The program nourishes not only the body, but also a sense of dignity, belonging, and mutual care within the community.
during 2025
450+
Hot Meals Served
1000
Tofus Saved
323
Full Bellies
Our Offerings:
Hot Meal Delivery
dec 2024 - Now
Hot meal lunch boxes prepared by Ovaltine Cafe staff are delivered to low-income and/or home-bound seniors once per week. Each meal includes a protein, vegetable stir fry, rice or noodles, and a side of soup.
Food Redistribution
once every 2 weeks
Tofu donations are picked up from Sunrise Market once per week or once every two weeks. These tofu products are still safe to consume, but are not up to large corporate shelf life standards. Low-income seniors in the neighbourhood are welcome to pick up tofu at the office, and it is also distributed to seniors at workshops and Yarrow’s Morning Exercise program.
Food Literacy Workshops
reoccuring
Held by UBC Dietetics students, the workshops are tailored to the low-income Chinese speaking seniors residing in Chinatown.
I now have access to all my favorite groceries.
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