CSCU is a Living Wage Employer. We offer affordable financial products and trusted services to the working community. We support local health, policing, leadership organizations, and positive, community-focused groups.
Sandip Bains
Sandip Bains was honoured with the Community Savings’ Social Purpose Impact Award for her dedicated work with Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen (GNFK).
Founded in 2006, GNFK was created by like-minded individuals committed to making a positive difference in the lives of residents in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and the Lower Mainland. Every weekend, the organization provides hot, nutritious meals to those in need. With the support of donors like Community Savings Credit Union, GNFK also distributes essential items to help enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families.
Sandip’s journey with GNFK began when her son sought volunteer opportunities for school. Over time, their entire family became involved in serving meals on weekends.
“It was heartbreaking to learn that some people rely on this service as their only meal of the week. Thanks to Community Savings Credit Union’s generous donation, we can create a tangible, positive impact and work toward a more equitable society. Volunteering is a crucial part of uniting working people to build a just world.” — Sandip Bains
In recognition of her efforts, Sandip received $5,000 to donate to Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen, ensuring continued support for those who need it most.
Thelma Rodriguez
Thelma’s journey of advocacy began when a Mexican farm worker approached her, asking where he could find Mexican food products. In speaking with him, she discovered that many Pitt Meadows farm workers had limited access to transportation, with buses provided only every two weeks for essential shopping. Seeing a need, Thelma took action—first by collecting footwear and clothing to help workers adapt to Canada’s colder climate.
What started as a simple act of kindness has grown into a seven-year mission. Thelma now delivers food, toiletries, blankets, and bicycles to help migrant workers navigate their time in Canada more comfortably. Over the years, she has built a strong support network, securing clothing donations from Superstore, groceries from Save-On-Foods, and even clothing from the film industry.
Beyond material support, Thelma has also coordinated medical care for workers, connecting them with a Spanish-speaking doctor and assisting with hospital visits as a translator in times of emergency. With over 700 seasonal farm workers in Pitt Meadows and 25 farms relying on their labour, Thelma has remained dedicated to ensuring they receive the support they deserve.
Her tireless work has not gone unnoticed. The City of Pitt Meadows recognized Thelma with a "Good Neighbour" award and even provided storage space to help with the growing collection of donations and bicycles.
Thelma has been honoured as the inaugural winner of the Community Savings’ Social Purpose Impact Award, given to a staff member who has made a meaningful difference in helping and uniting working people to build a just world. As part of this recognition, Thelma received $5,000 to donate to the charitable organizations of her choice—ensuring her impact continues to grow.
There are often shortages in protein-based foods which
provide key nourishment for people particularly at-risk.
We partner with United Way to raise funds and
awareness for food banks and vulnerable people in BC.
Community Savings is committed to supporting
workers in their time of need. We are proud
to stand with workers and support their
struggles for fair wages and benefits.
CSCU has proudly supported the BC Centre for Women in the Trades (BCCWITT), who are working to eliminate the barriers for, and increase the retention and advancement of, women in the trades.
In Canada, April 28th has been designated the Day of Mourning, a day for workers, families, employers, and communities to come together and remember those who lost their lives to work-related incidents or occupational disease.
We contribute 1% of our net earnings to a variety of charities and community groups, including bursaries and scholarships, for the next generation of hard working community members.
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