Another successful fundraiser has been completed by L.A. Matheson Secondary students for a culturally sensitive senior centre.
Presenting a cheque to the Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS) Society, Matheson students under the support of teacher Gurpreet Kaur Bains have raised a grand total of $17,008 for the Guru Nanak Diversity Village project. This being the fifth year, students raised $1,500 in 2025.
"This campaign happens every April for 2 weeks as part of our Sikh Heritage Month initiative out of Punjabi language classes," Bains explained.
"First started out during COVID when Vaisakhi celebrations were cancelled and seniors were impacted big time. We continue this tradition."
On May 16, a small ceremony was held at the school to recognize the students and present the cheque to the CEO of PICS, Satbir Singh Cheema, and director Maninder Kaur Grewal.
"We want to take a moment to recognize and thank a very special group of young changemakers—the incredible students of L.A. Matheson Secondary School," Grewal said on the Friday.
"Your generous donation toward the senior village being built by PICS is not just a contribution—it’s a beautiful act of compassion and community spirit. You are helping us create a space where seniors from diverse backgrounds can live with dignity, joy and a strong sense of belonging."
The Guru Nanak Diversity Village will be open with 125 beds in three storeys at 6471 175A St. in Surrey offering long-term care to seniors in the community, with an emphasis on providing culturally appropriate care and services.
Under construction, the building is expected to be ready for residents in 2026.
"By supporting this project, you are sending a powerful message—that you care about the elders in our community, that you believe in inclusion, and that you’re committed to building a future where all generations are connected," Grewal continued.
"You’ve proven that leadership and empathy don’t wait for adulthood. You are making a real difference right now. And for that, on behalf of PICS and the many seniors who will benefit from this village—thank you from the bottom of our hearts. L.A. Matheson, you should be proud—not just of your donation, but of the spirit behind it. You are truly helping us build not just homes, but hope.”
