YVR and Quest get together once again to spread hope, one hamper at a time

The holiday season often brings added stress and insecurity for many families in vulnerable situations. However, thanks to the YVR-Quest partnership, many families in British Columbia will be able to celebrate the holidays with food on the table and peace of mind.

For over 14 years, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Quest Outreach Society have worked hand in hand to make the holiday season a little brighter for families facing food insecurity. This ongoing partnership is built on a shared commitment to supporting our community and ensuring that everyone has access to fresh, nutritious food—especially during the holidays.

Following the success of our Annual Hamper Drive hosted on December 13—where we helped feed nearly 10,000 British Columbians—YVR employees once again joined forces with Quest this past week to assemble and distribute even more hampers to families in need, just in time for the holidays.

On December 20, a team of volunteers from YVR and Quest came together to fill another 200 hampers with festive essentials, including antibiotic-free and halal-certified turkeys, fresh local produce (onions, carrots, potatoes, beets, and mandarin oranges), gravy, chicken stock, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a sweet holiday treat. These hampers, distributed in Burnaby, Surrey, and other locations across the Lower Mainland, represent more than just meals—they’re a symbol of care, dignity, and hope, showcasing the power of community and purpose that defines the longstanding YVR-Quest partnership.

This initiative wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of volunteers who lend their time, energy, and compassion year after year. As Ivan Tse, Manager of YVR’s Guest Experience team and a experienced volunteer, put it:

“I think the work that Quest does is so important. Everyone should have an opportunity to share a good meal with loved ones during the holidays. And the way the airport community comes together for this event is truly inspiring. It’s about taking action to help others, not just words or good intentions.”

For Oge Moss, Environmental Analyst at YVR and a returning Quest volunteer, the experience holds deep meaning:

“I love volunteering and giving back to our community. It is a passion of mine, and I try to encourage others on my team to participate with me when they can. Quest is one of my favorite organizations to volunteer for because food is essential to all of us, and this partnership is a beautiful way to provide this need to those who face challenges affording the high costs of food. This time, I had the honor of distributing hampers and meeting the recipients, bringing joy to their holiday season with a hamper full of healthy, delicious food. It’s an experience I will always cherish.”

Rose, a Quest client, offered a heartfelt reminder of the life-changing impact these initiatives can have on individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Her story underscores the importance of compassion, community, and the shared effort to bring hope and dignity to those in need.

“My husband lost his job, and as we’re in our late 50s and early 60s, we found ourselves facing food insecurity. A neighbour mentioned Quest to us, and it has been life-changing. Events like the Annual Hamper Drive help destigmatize people who need food banks and food markets. I’m so grateful for the volunteers, staff, donors, and partners—I will keep them in my heart. This support reduces anxiety and brings happiness to people like us.”

The impact of these efforts extends far beyond the holiday season. Quest Outreach Society plays a vital role in the community, providing accessible, affordable food through its non-profit grocery markets and partnerships with local organizations. YVR is proud to support Quest with a $65,000 donation this year, further enabling their work to reduce food insecurity and uplift families across British Columbia.

We’re grateful for everyone who continues to make this partnership a success—our volunteers, partners, donors, and the Quest team. Together, we’re filling tables and hearts with hope, one hamper at a time.

Happy Holidays!