Envision Financial's The Full Cupboard Program Celebrates First Successful Year in B.C.

LANGLEY, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - April 30, 2014) - Over the past year, food banks across the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat have received nearly $98,000 and more than 11,600 pounds of food thanks to the efforts of Envision Financial employees, members and community partners.

It's all thanks to Envision Financial's The Full Cupboard program, launched one year ago to raise food, funds and awareness for local food banks. Through this innovative community program Envision Financial has committed to raising $1 million for local food banks over the next 10 years.

"I am so proud of the meaningful difference The Full Cupboard is starting to make in our communities," says Envision Financial President Shelley Besse. "I have been so encouraged by the support we have received from our staff and our members and the enthusiasm with which they've joined us in tackling the issue of hunger."

The Full Cupboard has been a welcome addition for local food banks, many of which have found that the need in their community is only increasing.

"Envision Financial's Full Cupboard program is a shining example of how community partners come together to support their neighbours," says Marilyn Herrmann, President of Food Banks BC. "Low income families struggling with some of life's greatest challenges, particularly food insecurity, often struggle in silence and alone. The Full Cupboard helps to not only raise much needed money and food for these families but it reminds all of us that we need to do our part to help others. We are very grateful to Envision Financial and their caring employees for helping to change lives in our community and for bringing us together to make a difference."

"Last year over 94,000 British Columbians accessed their local food bank, 30% of whom were children," says Besse. "This speaks to the need for programs like The Full Cupboard in our province. While the results from our first year have been amazing, we realize that we still have a long way to go to achieve our ultimate goal."

From May 5-9, Envision Financial is marking National Hunger Awareness Week at all of their locations by hosting events such as barbeques, plant sales and raffles. Community members can support The Full Cupboard by donating non-perishable food items or making cash donations at their nearest Envision Financial branch or by participating in any of the Hunger Awareness Week activities. All donations over $20 are tax-deductible. Donations can be made as one-time contributions, through regular, pre-authorized payments or online through www.thefullcupboard.ca or through the Food Banks B.C. online donations portal at: http://www.foodbanksbc.com/get-involved/thefullcupboard/.

About Envision Financial

Envision Financial is a division of First West Credit Union, B.C.'s third-largest credit union, with 39 branches and 28 insurance offices throughout the province operating under the Envision Financial, Valley First and Enderby & District Financial brands. Led by Launi Skinner, First West has $7.7 billion in assets under administration, more than 177,000 members and close to 1,300 employees. For eight years running, Envision was named one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada. For its extensive community involvement, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by Imagine Canada. For more information on Envision Financial, visit www.envisionfinancial.ca.