Surrey’s City Dream Centre Society Empowers Thousands in Need

Surrey’s City Dream Centre Society is making a significant impact by supporting thousands of residents facing economic hardships. The organization, founded by Loretta Hibbs, aims to foster hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging among those who often feel overlooked. During a presentation to Surrey’s council on November 3, 2024, Hibbs highlighted the society’s various programs designed to assist low-income families, refugees, and immigrants in the community.

The society’s flagship initiative, the Adopt-a-School program, serves over 6,000 children and their families annually. This program is complemented by its Weekend Feeding initiative, which provides food hampers to families in need, particularly during the summer months when school meal programs are unavailable. Hibbs noted that in 2024, the society aims to serve approximately 321,600 meals across its various programs.

At the heart of its mission is a commitment to address food insecurity, which Hibbs emphasized is a growing concern. “I’m sure that you are aware that one in four children are at risk of food insecurity,” she told council members, underscoring the urgent need for their services. This year, the society plans to distribute 400 triple hampers at Christmas, providing food for approximately 2,000 people during the school break.

In addition to food support, the City Dream Centre Society organizes a back-to-school event each August, helping families prepare for the upcoming academic year. This event offers free haircuts, backpacks, and school supplies to children. Additionally, during the holiday season, around 2,600 children from local schools will receive hand-delivered gifts, a tradition made possible by the dedication of over 200 volunteers.

The society also provides hygiene packages in schools, offers parenting courses, and collaborates with local recovery homes and shelters. Hibbs expressed a desire to expand their services to include residential recovery programs and employment support, stating, “Our dream is to create a supportive community where families facing poverty can transition from crisis to self-sufficiency.”

The financial aspect of these initiatives is substantial. The total annual cost for the society’s programs is approximately $365,000, with $112,000 coming from adoption fees and the remaining $252,000 funded by the society. Volunteers play a crucial role, with 820 volunteers logged 4,825 hours of service in 2024 alone.

During the council meeting, Mayor Brenda Locke praised the efforts of Hibbs and her team. “You and your team and your volunteers are totally a gift to our city,” she remarked, highlighting the importance of their work. Councillor Pardeep Kooner echoed this sentiment, thanking Hibbs for the society’s ongoing contributions.

As demand for assistance has risen, Hibbs noted that the society is currently helping 280 families each week, an increase from 240 families in 2024. “There’s a waiting list of families on the weekend emergency feeding program who are really struggling for food security,” Hibbs explained, emphasizing the need for additional funding to meet the growing needs of the community.

With its extensive outreach and dedicated volunteers, the City Dream Centre Society is not only addressing immediate needs but is also working to empower families in Surrey toward a more sustainable future.