About Raphael House
Who We Are
Raphael House is a community-based organization serving families in Langley, British Columbia who are experiencing food insecurity and life challenges.
What began as a small neighbourhood effort has grown into a trusted food support hub, now serving hundreds of families each week through our Food Hub and community programs.
We believe food support is about more than groceries — it’s about dignity, stability, and hope.
From a School Gym to a Community Hub
In March 2020, when COVID-19 restrictions disrupted essential services across Langley, many families suddenly lost access to school food programs such as Breakfast Club, Grab and Go lunches, and weekend Fuel Bags. With little notice and no alternatives, families were left vulnerable.
Recognizing the urgent need, Kim Langford and the staff at Douglas Park Elementary partnered with Sources to launch a mobile food bank in July 2020. Operating twice a week out of the school gym, what began as a temporary solution quickly expanded beyond one school to support families from across Langley City.
As the new school year approached, it became clear that the program had outgrown the gym — and the need was only increasing.
Growing Through Community Collaboration
CLA and Southgate churches stepped in to help. Mandy and Debbie served as liaisons from the churches, while Brad from the school district supported coordination efforts. With the backing of Sources and local businesses, the mobile food hub moved to the Douglas Recreation Centre.
But by 2021, it became evident that temporary public spaces were not sustainable long-term. At the same time, demand continued to rise.
A Permanent Home on Douglas Crescent
Mark and Vickie, who had been volunteering and witnessing the impact firsthand, committed to strengthening and sustaining the initiative. They helped secure financial support and rallied businesses and community partners to stand behind the vision.
In July 2021, the food hub opened its permanent location on Douglas Crescent in Langley. The organization evolved from Raphael Family Support Centre to Raphael House — reflecting not just food support, but belonging, healing, and community.
What began serving 60 families grew to nearly 400 families weekly — and continues to grow.
Since October 2022, Raphael House has held charitable status.
Today:
400+ families supported weekly through our Food Hub
65+ countries are represented among the families we serve
150+ volunteers support our weekly operations
Many families who receive support later return to volunteer
Demand continues to increase as food costs rise
We have seen significant growth in families who are new immigrants and refugees from Afghanistan, Latin America, Nigeria, Ukraine, and other regions of the world.
Food remains the epicentre of our work — but belonging and genuine relationships are what define Raphael House.
Where We Are Today
More Than Food
At Raphael House, we understand that families facing food insecurity are often navigating many challenges at once. Our goal is to reduce stress, restore dignity, and provide consistent support during difficult seasons.
Our programs are designed to:
Offer reliable access to nutritious food
Create a welcoming, judgement-free environment
Foster connection and community
Support resilience and long-term well-being
Every family who walks through our doors is treated with respect and compassion.
We serve families facing temporary or ongoing hardship across Langley, BC.
Raphael House exists to ensure no family feels alone or unsupported during challenging times.
Supporting Langley Families
Our Commitment
We strive to be easy to reach, easy to navigate, and welcoming to every family and supporter in our community.
Accessible
We honour every family’s story and provide support with compassion, dignity, and without judgment.
Respectful
Rooted in Langley, we work alongside our neighbours to strengthen families and build meaningful local connections.
Community-Focused
We steward donated resources thoughtfully and transparently to maximize impact and serve families effectively.
Accountable
Financial Transparency
Raphael House is committed to financial accountability and transparency. We value the trust placed in us by donors, partners, and the community, and we steward every contribution with care. The majority of donations go directly toward food support and essential services for families in Langley, BC.
Where Your Support Goes
Purchasing groceries and fresh produce
Food Hub operations and distribution
Storage and handling of food supplies
Food Programs
Family support initiatives
Seasonal and special programs
Community outreach and resources
Community Programs
Program coordination
Volunteer management
Essential administrative support
Operations & Staffing
Responsible Stewardship
We continuously review our spending to ensure funds are used effectively and in alignment with our mission.
Every donation — whether one-time or monthly — helps us provide consistent, reliable support to families who need it most.
We are deeply grateful for every contribution and the trust our supporters place in Raphael House.
When families have access to food, support, and connection, communities grow stronger. Raphael House is proud to serve Langley families — and grateful for everyone who makes this work possible.