A New Westminster resident recently received a RBC Top 25 Immigrant Award.
Retired millwright Harbhajan Singh Athwal is president of the Khalsa Diwan Society Sukh Sagar in New Westminster, through which he organizes programs for youth, disaster relief campaigns and other humanitarian initiatives. A native of India, he was one of 25 Canadians selected as winners of the 10th annual RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards, which are presented by Canadian Immigrant magazine and sponsored by RBC Royal Bank.
“The RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments and leadership of newcomers across Canada,” said Ivy Chiu, senior director, newcomer strategy at RBC. “Now in its 10th year and with over 250 newcomers recognized, the awards highlight our country’s diversity and the contributions and positive impact newcomers have been making in our communities. Congratulations to all winners and nominees.”
According to RBC and Canadian Immigrant magazine, hundreds of nominations were received, from which 75 finalists were shortlisted, with winners being chosen through a combination of judging and online voting. Along with a commemorative plaque and a $500 donation to a registered Canadian charity of their choice, winners will be featured online at canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25 and in the July print edition of Canadian Immigrant magazine.
Helping hands
Local Save-On-Foods stores recently helped the company raise $250,000 to support local food banks across Western Canada.
Through the Share It Forward campaign, Save-On-Foods donated 25 per cent of net proceeds from Western Family products purchased between June 15 and 17. Heidi Ferriman, the company’s communications director, said New Westminster stores raised $3,100 to support the Greater Vancouver Food Bank in the company’s recent Share It Forward campaign.
In addition to funds raised through the sale of Western Family products, stores also raised additional funds and food donations through various in-store activities.
JAK’s gives back
A local transition house has a bit more money in the bank thanks to a local liquor store.
JAK’s Beer, Wine, Spirits recently raised funds for Monarch Place at its annual summer celebration, by donating 10 per cent of all sales made between noon and 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 23. JAK’s, located at 517 Seventh St., raised $636 for Monarch Place, a transition home for women and children fleeing domestic violence.
