Contact | The Canadian Flowers For Food Society

Vancouver Location:

The Canadian Flowers for Food Society

1675 Harwood St.
Vancouver,BC, Canada V6G-1Y1

(Please, no unsolicited email attachments or post packages)

The Canadian Flowers for Food Society is completely fueled by Volunteer Power including the CEO.

To Volunteer and/or Send Feedback, please Email Us or use the Contact Form below.

Please write to us with any thoughts or suggestions. We welcome all comments.
Thank you!
The CFFFS Team.

Sent: Thursday, December 03, 2009 7:48 AM

Subject: good morning
Hi Marrett,

I have a lot of flowers from an event I did yesterday and I was hoping I can come and drop them off today. As this will be my first time, would you please explain to me how the system works. I am very excited about
us collaborating with each other, you are doing a fantastic job!
thank you so much

Liliana.

Sent: Friday, November 30, 2009 11:11 AM

Subject: A Support Letter from Westend Community Center
November 30, 2009

To Whom It May Concern:

For the past year the Westend community center has played an integral role in the operations of the
Canadian Flowers for Food Society (CFFS) street program by providing space (skate room) for flower buckets for the delivery and pick up of flowers by their volunteer drivers and clients. In this time we have seen the success of the program for both homeless people and seniors in residence; and we remain convinced of the
program’s success in providing opportunity and making a positive difference for marginalized members of our community.

We are also pleased with our growing relationship with CFFS and the minimum interference our staff experiences within the process of their volunteers and clients accessing the donated space during our hours
of operation.

The Westend community center is proud to be a part of this creative grassroots charity and advocate other centers getting involved by providing bucket space for flower storage. We are confident your community will also witness the same success for marginalized residents in your community taking part in Canadian Flowers for Food programs.

Sincerely,

Terry O’Hara

CCW2 – Community Center Worker 2

Westend Community Center

Sent: Friday, November 13, 2009 3:14 PM

Subject: special event bouquets

Hi There,

I just recently heard about this program and was wondering if you do wedding flowers – We haven’t set a date or anything yet, but would love to keep something like this in mind for the occasion.

Thanks,

Shazia

Sent:Thu 2/12/2009 7:17 PM

Subject:Regarding YPI
Marrett,

Hello, this is Maria from Heritage Woods, regarding our discussion on Wednesday about the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI). Here’s some more information about the YPI project that we are doing.

It’s a project that has been developed by philanthropists in Toronto for grade 10 planning students. It is used to promote grassroots charities across Canada and highlight what they do to contribute to society. The group that best represents their charity is awarded a five thousand dollar grant.

We have chosen your charity because we thought it was unique and liked how you are helping out the environment and homeless, including giving people in need a second chance. We would feel honoured to represent you in this YPI project and being able to see first hand what exactly is going on.

We are very excited for our visit next Friday and wanted to double check that we can bring cameras to take videos and pictures in the facility and of the people there. Would there also be any possibility that we would be able to interview some of the people who you provide the flowers to and also yourself?

We are looking forward to meeting with you and we thank-you for your time and this wonderful opportunity.

Best Regards,

Maria, Alina, Chandler and Erica

Sent:Sat 10/11/2008 9:00 AM

Subject:rebuffed your client

I’m a visitor to the city and was approached yesterday by one of your clients outside the art gallery. I didn’t know about your program but the fellow showed me his card. He kindly gave me a rose and I returned it saying I didn’t need a rose.

I don’t know what possessed me and I feel upset with myself and hope I haven’t discouraged him. I think I was feeling a little nervous about how I was going to reach in my purse while holding the rose. He responded “You don’t need a rose & I’ve got ten dozen roses”. If you know who this is please convey my apologies to him.He has blondish hair, green eyes, no front teeth and would be probably in his 40’s? I’m at a friends computor but will try to find a way to get some $ over to you to give to him.

Thank-you,

Joy

Sent:Fri 1/18/2008 12:07 PM

Subject:Flowers for Valentine’s Day
Hello!

I saw a story about TJ’s story and your organization on the news about a week ago and was very inspired and touched at the charity’s will to help out Greater Vancouver’s homeless people.

I am a student at John Cassablancas in Gastown and therefore witness first hand every day our city’s growing homeless population. With Valentine’s day just around the corner, I thought this may be a great opportunity to contribute to the organization.

I would like to take orders for Valentine Flowers at my school, that would be pre-ordered and then delivered to the students the week of Valentine’s Day. The students and faculty could order them for eachother, or as a bouquet for loved ones at home. All proceeds from the flowers would be donated to the Canadian Flowers for Food Society in exchange for the appropriate amount of flowers ordered.

I would of course email (or by other means of communication) the amount of flowers ordered ahead of time so that they would be ready for pick up on Feb.12th or 13th.

Please let me is at all possible as I would like to begin to take orders as soon as Monday the 21st Jan.

Thank you in advance for your help and congratulations on all the help that you have brought the homeless people’s community of Vancouver.

Regards,

Tanya C.

Sent:Wed 1/9/2008 11:30 AM

Subject:prejudging

I saw the local news and learned about your program. I am very sad to say, that though I already work with a marginalized population, that when I saw flowers being sold on my way downtown, that my first thought was how the gentleman managed to steal so many flowers at once. I am ashamed at myself for jumping to this conclusion, particularly because I work with this population.

Thank you so much for teaching me a lesson, and ever so much for the fabulous program you are a part of. In the work that I do, I am ever aware of the importance of self worth, and know how much of this you are assisting people to find.

I wish you luck in your continued endeavor. And thanks again for the reality check!

Sent:Fri 6/20/2008 1:54 PM

Subject: volunteering
Hi,

My name is Stephanie and I am an undergraduate doing an internship in Vancouver this summer until August.

I saw your website through Craigslist and would like to know how I could volunteer for your organization. It sounds like you are doing some very inspiring work.

Thank you,

Stephanie

Sent:Thu 3/27/2008 8:01 AM

Subject:flowers

Dear Mr. Green,

I saw the recent article in the Globe & Mail and went to your website. Your generosity is amazing. For you to start something so amazing to assist others in having a better life. I was wondering about TJ and where he sells his flowers. I wrote to you yesterday but at the flowers e-mail address but have not received a response yet. I was wondering do you still take time out of your busy schedule to deliver flowers to him. Is there somewhere where I could find a person selling these flowers to purchase? I would also love to meet you in person.

Thank you for taking the time to read this e-mail in your busy schedule.

Yours truly,

Angela

Sent:Sat 7/5/2008 11:37 AM

Subject:
Hello!

My name is Nicki B. Last night, I was downtown, and as we were walking to our car, we saw a man selling flowers out of a grocery cart. I remembered a news story from quite a while ago about this man that had really touched me. It was about how he could sell these “imperfect” flowers for money, food, and shelter. As I said, I was quite touched by his story, and it stuck with me through all of these months. However, as I live in White Rock and don’t drive, I could never really travel downtown to see him until last night.

When I got home, I researched his story on the internet, and came across the “Flowers for Food” website. I think this is a brilliant idea. As a result, I have created a support group on facebook. I wish more people knew about this man, and this group, and all that they are doing to help the homeless help themselves. I hope more people will join on facebook, and maybe go pay TJ or others participating in this program a visit.

TJ was so happy last night telling us how he had his first home in 11 years to go to that night, and he was going then because he “doesn’t want to get greedy”. It is truly motivational to read about what your organization does for the homeless, and I just wanted to let you know that. Thank you for doing what you do.

Sincerely,

Nicki B.

Sent:Wed 1/23/2008 5:14 PM

Subject:Looking for TJ
Hi.

I did see the story. I stopped by with gloves,hat,scarf and some money. As well, I spoke to TJ, he mentioned he was moving to a safer location.

He was going to save his money for dishes, towels and other home items. I told him I would bring him stuff. I now have lots of stuff for him for a told a few people. I haven’t seen him outside. Is he ok and where might he be with his flowers?

Thank you!

Michelle

ps. As well, I need to get some flowers!

Sent:Thu 3/27/2008 12:46 PM

Subject:flowers
Dear Mr. Green,

Thank you for taking the time to read this e-mail in your busy schedule.

Yours truly,

Angela

Sent:Sun 4/6/2008 6:51 PM

Subject:Re: The Globe and Mail Interview Re: Flowers for Food…

Marrett: Finally read this. Great piece! Keep up the great work.
>

Ken
>

Ken Carrusca, P.Eng. | Senior Engineer

Metro Vancouver (Greater Vancouver Regional District)

Sent:Sun 11/2/2008 1:25 AM

Subject:Thank you
Reading you web-site was inspiring and empowering.

It raised my consciousness. Thank you for the amazing work you are doing.

Patti

Sent:Sat 4/12/2008 11:37 AM

Subject:Hey buddy….
Hi Marrett,

that was a great article brother….that’s a great thing you started.

We all try our best to change the world for the better but you have suceeded there.

Hope all your other endeavours are doing well too.

Hope all is cool with you. Take care for now,

Dee

Sent:Mon 6/30/2008 5:28 AM

Subject:Just learned about you
Hello,

I just learned about Flower for Food and I think it is an amazing idea that is so full of inspiration and beauty.

I live in Fredericton NB where there is a fairly high homeless population for such a small city, I wonder if such an organization would work here??

Do you have any other chapters in Canada? Maybe it can start here too.

What do you think?

All my Relations

Deborah

Love your Neighbour as YOURSELF

Sent:Thu 10/23/2008 5:49 PM

Subject:petals, petals, everywhere
Hello, my name is Chantal, what a welcoming site to come across

I heard of you thru my friendship with Sam and her directing me to her interview and art on your site.
A thought that came to me, and I’d like to present to you to use as you wish, if you wish…
Have you considered using petals on the way to recycling and converting them to pot pourri?
As well as a luxury item of petal roses for the bath, hmmmm….

Thank you for what you are already doing. May you have a long run.

Chantal

Up the fun level

Sent:Monday, March 2, 2009 9:21 AM

Subject:THE FIRST OFFICE FLORAL OUTREACH PROGRAM AT MOTIVATION, POWER & ACHIEVEMENT SOCIETY
Hi Marrett

Just want to say a massive thank you!

Even though I did not stay I know how good the whole session was. The dynamics in the building changed just by turning off the TV for a while and it was special seeing folks engaged in areas that traditionally would not attract them. The Staff here had nothing but praise for the concept and its execution which is of course down to your supporting and motivating the Members.
I appreciate the one down side was a loss of scissors but we can certainly compensate!
So one more time a massive thank you and look forward to the next occasion!.
Kind regards

Martin

Manager

Motivation Power & Achievement Society

Sent:Saturday, July 12, 2008 6:53 PM

Subject:THE BEST IDEA EVER
Hi,

I just want to say thank you for setting up Flowers for Food. It is the most wonderful way to help the homeless and encourage them and help with their self esteem. I think it also shows everyone else that they are willing to do something for their donations.

My daughter and I have known TJ forever since Quebec street and handing out stolen City of Vancouver flowers, or little pieces of silver paper in exchange for a donation no matter how small or large.

Sandra

Sent: Friday, June 20, 2008 1:54 PM

Subject: volunteering
Hi,
My name is Stephanie and I am an undergraduate doing an internship in Vancouver this summer until August. I saw your website through Craigslist and would like to know how I could volunteer for your organization. It sounds like you are doing some very inspiring work.
Thank you,
Stephanie

Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 7:19 PM

Subject: Flowers for Food Artist Call
Hello,

My name is Alexis, I just read your craigslist ad and reviewed the Flowers for Food site. I think Food for Flowers is such a creative, smart, and empowering concept! After reading the founding story, I was quite touched and inspired to hear about an idea that blossomed into a successful charitable organization that helps so many people.

Much appreciated,

Alexis D.

Sent: Monday, April 21, 2008 6:15 PM

Subject: Thank You
Dear flowers for food society, we wanted to thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to meet with us.By the way we are the group of girls form rive******** doing our project on your charity. Our presentation went well.

We actually made it up to semi finals. Unfortunatly we didn’t get to make it to finals. We really wanted to thank you for creating such a great charity. Before we met you we didn’t realize how much of an impact this charity is doing in people’s lives. Hopefully our classmates saw that as well.
sincerly, Claudia, Zere, Jessica and Monisha

Sent: Thursday, March 27, 2008 8:00 AM

Subject:Re: flowers
Dear Mr. Green,
I saw the recent article in the Globe & Mail and went to your website. Your generosity is amazing. For you to start something so amazing to assist others in having a better life.
I was wondering about TJ and where he sells his flowers. I wrote to you yesterday but at the flowers e-mail address but have not received a response yet. I was wondering do you still take time out of your busy schedule to deliver flowers to him. Is there somewhere where I could find a person selling these flowers to purchase? I would also love to meet you in person.
Thank you for taking the time to read this e-mail in your busy schedule.
Yours truly,
Angela

Sent: Monday, March 10, 2008 03:10 PM

Subject: Flowers for Food
Dear: Marrett,
I have always kept you and TJ in mind since I saw you on CTV. I want to commend you on your initiative and dedication. I recently moved to North Vancouver after living downtown for four years. My motto was to give food instead of money unless they were playing an instrument or in TJ’s case, selling flowers – actively doing something, not under the thumb hold of drugs. There is so much that needs to be done in Vancouver to assist those living in poverty or worse on the streets and of course programs for those with substance abuse issues. Your program helps restore self-esteem to those who have been alienated simply because of their status and the stereotypes that surround it.
After googling the man behind the mission, I discovered you are also a husband, father, and an amazing son to an amazing mother. Your family must be very proud and what a role model you are for your sons. I have a soft spot for wonderful fathers, as I have one – though now in spirit. I can only hope to be fortunate to find a man as giving, caring, and inspiring to raise a family with. You are also an author of children’s books too – how wonderful! I started my career working as an Infant/Toddler Educator namely with the children of teen mothers. Now, I am a birth and postpartum doula (I support women through labour and their family afterwards). I am always on-call making it difficult to make commitments to anything, but I noticed some of the volunteers needed at FFF can work from home. If this is the case, I would really like to do what I can. I could also attend some fundraisers (as long as my client isn’t in labour!).
I find you so inspiring and if the opportunity ever arose, I would love to set the world right with you over tea or coffee!
Congratulations on all you have achieved.
Kindest Regards,
M. Evans

Sent: Tuesday, January 29, 2008 07:05 AM

Subject: Canadian Flowers for Food Society
Hello.

I think “Flowers for Food” sounds like a good idea, so add my name to the petition in support of it.
Sincerely,
Douglas S.

Vancouver Resident

Sent: Tuesday, January 29, 2008 4:40 PM

Subject: The Canadian Flowers for Food Society Letter of Support to Vancouver City Hall
“I support the Canadian Flowers for Food Society as a local charity and all they are doing in our communities for the homeless people, our economy, and environment.”
Stepahnie Wilson
North Shore Association for the Mentally Handicapped

Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2008 06:22 AM

Subject: Looking for TJ

Hi.
I did see the story. I stopped by with gloves,hat,scarf and some money. As well, I spoke to TJ, he mentioned he was moving to a safer location. He was going to save his money for dishes, towels and other home items. I told him I would bring him stuff. I now have lots of stuff for him for a told a few people. I haven’t seen him outside. Is he ok and where might he be selling his flowers?
Thank you!
Michelle
ps. As well, I need to get some flowers!

Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2008 11:29 AM

Subject: prejudging
I saw the local news and learned about your program. I am very sad to say, that though I already work with a marginalized population, that when I saw flowers being sold on my way downtown, that my first thought was how the gentleman managed to steal so many flowers at once. I am ashamed at myself for jumping to this conclusion, particularly because I work with this population.

I wish you luck in your continued endeavor. And thanks again for the reality check!
T. scaldonk

Sent: Monday, January 07, 2008 9:24 PM

Subject: Thank you
To Marrett,
THANK YOU for your creativity and determination. I have known TJ for years and always wanted to help. I passed him on my way home from SFU over three years ago. I gave him my leftover food and change to buy a coffee to keep warm. TJ insisted I take a flower.. he only got his way a couple times. He always remembered my face and seemed genuinely happy to talk to someone. TJ was so excited when he got his tent! TJ is a very sweet man in an unfortunate situation. My whole family looks out for TJ and on Christmas day my father delivered food and enough money for two nights shelter. I am so happy when those who are struggling to make it are assisted, especially those that are using their money for food and shelter instead of drugs.

Lately, I have been driving by TJ’s spot and he isn’t there… bad timing perhaps. I always hope he is somewhere warm. It brings a smile to my face when I look at the corner I usually see him at and I see the leftover flower petals.
I am so happy your website has received the publicity it deserves.
Cheers to you and to TJ! YOU have made a difference.
All the best.
Jordan B

Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2008 9:25 AM

Subject: TJ
Just saw your story on the CKCO News — what a wonderful thing you are doing! I just want to thank you!
Heidi Labusch

Sent: Tuesday, December 04, 2007 5:11 PM

Subject: TJ

Dear Marrett,
Wow! I have been looking for TJ for the last 2 years and was pleasantly surprised to find him on your site. For a few years I had an appointment every Wednesday downtown and I would see TJ every week where Quebec turns into Pacific Boulevard. I always seemed to hit the red light there and this is how I got to spend a little time with TJ each week. At first I’d give him granola bars and fruit left over from my uneaten lunch and he’d give me a pink gerber daisy or some other pretty flower from his bunch. It then progressed to where I’d make soup, casseroles, sandwiches, fruit, juice boxes, milk, cookies (you name it!) and bring this supply of food in a box to TJ and in exchange I’d receive a beautiful little bouquet of flowers. We’d always have a little chat and I looked forward to his smile. One winter, I didn’t see him for awhile and I got quite worried, phoning around to the hospitals and such, with no luck of finding him. Then he was back and told me how he’d gotten pneumonia and was in the hospital for awhile. So, with the next week’s food I brought a few month’s supply of vitamin C, Zinc lozenges, and everything else my pharmacist told me would help. That’s the first time TJ called me his angel.
What impressed me most about TJ is that he never asked for money and he wouldn’t allow me to refuse a flower if I gave him food. Our society is so quick to dismiss people living on the street as crazies, crackheads, hookers, and bums. We’re talking about people who are dealing with mental health issues, addiction, male violence against women, and poverty. And none of it is their fault. Flowers for Food gives people a chance to not just ask for help but to give something wonderful back in return. And that will give them the self worth and respect that is almost impossible to come by when living on the street. I’m pleased you have been inspired by TJ, as have I and all of us who have had the privilege to know him.
I no longer have the same appointment downtown and I gave up my car a few years ago so unfortunately I’ve lost touch with TJ. But I think of him often and look out for him when I’m in the area. If you’re in touch with him please let him know that one of his “angels” hopes he is well. And if sadly, he’s no longer with us, then my heart is filled with hope that his legacy will live on and will continue to help others in need. You know it’s funny, every time someone gives me flowers I can’t help but think of TJ.
Thanks for all the great work you’re doing.
You’ve got my support!
Sincerely,
Sara

Sent: Monday, October 29, 2007 9:03 AM

Subject: Tanks

Marrett Green, founder of the Flowers For Food Society
Mr. Green and staff: Thanks so much for making a difference in other human beings lives in the downtown eastside. You help make the invisible, visible. That’s a great thing. Respect all the time.

Lori

Sent: Friday, February 02, 2007 7:32 PM

Subject: Thanks

Hello

I just wanted to say that it brings happy tears to my eyes to see that sweet old man TJ on the corner of Terminal and Quebec giving flowers for donations.

I have seen him several times driving home and I gave him some change several times and today was the first time that I was able to get some flowers from him and that’s when I went on the website and read this story.

I will continue to support this project! I think this is such a great thing and I applaud those homeless people who try to help themselves.

Thanks for the heartwarming vision of this project!

Marta

Sent: Wednesday, December 13, 2006 4:32 PM

Subject: Offering help

Hi there

I was speaking with TJ today, we are friends and I help him out as much as I can.

I have been keeping tabs on the development of this program and the flowers etc… today he told me the website.

So I am offering my help for what it is worth.

Whether it be time or work assistance.

Perhaps best to talk in person or on the telephone.

Anyway give me a call or drop me an email.

Thanks

David

Sent: Saturday, March 03, 2007 8:35 AM

Subject: Flowers for Food

Hi,

I often see a man selling flowers in Yaletown for ‘Flowers for Food’ (I think it could be TJ from what I saw on the website). And I was curious to know, how confident are you that my donation is going towards food?

I always feel skeptical about giving money to homeless men and women, and I often won’t give them money. But, occasionally I will buy a homeless person food when he/she asks for it. Because then, I know exactly where my money has gone.

Flowers for Food sounds like a great operation and I’d like to be able to confidently know it is legitamite, and your feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

jinniger

Sent:Tuesday, February 27, 2007 10:31 AM

Subject: volunteering??

Hi,

I’ve been in Vancouver for about 6 or 7 months now, on a working holiday visa from Australia, and so far I’ve found it to be a very beautiful and friendly city… However it’s been a bit of a shock to see so many people living on the streets in uncomfortable, if not dangerous positions.

I’ve often thought about what I could do to try and contribute to those people in some little way and have given out spare change or food when I’ve had it. On Christmas eve my boyfriend and I gave out bags of food and dog biscuits around where we live.

Last night on my way home from work I got flowers from Mike, who told me his story about getting clean and finding a place to live through the support he has recevied from flowers to food, so this morning when I got to work I checked out your website.

I do not really have money to Donations, but I do have some spare time… If there’s any way that you think I could help out by volunteering a bit of my time, let me know. I don’t have a car but am pretty adept on the transit system!

I look forward to hearing from you!

Cheers

Sarah

Sent:Tuesday, February 27, 2007 8:04 AM

Subject:Response from Victoria

Hello:

We had the pleasure of meeting a Flowers for Food volunteer when we were in Vancouver over the weekend.

I am wondering if there is a similar organization here in Victoria?

Thanks,
Bardy

Sent:Friday, February 23, 2007 12:56 PM

Subject:Interested in your work…

Hi!

My name is Lindsey, I live in Agawam, MA USA and I really enjoy
working with homeless and low-income individuals. I stumbled upon
your website by accident and was really thrilled about this idea that
you’ve started into action.

This past Valentine’s Day actually I had
thought about giving out flowers to people at the shelter where I
spend some time, but I called a wholesale place and they were way too
expensive. I didn’t think to ask about their discards.
I’m writing to tell you that I think this is a really cool idea. I also had a
question – I know the flower discards go to charitable organizations,
does the organization then give them to the homeless? Then they
either keep them or sell them for donations?

I’m just trying to understand the process so we can either mimick or do something
similar in our area. Any help you could give would be great! Thanks so much,

Blessings,
Lindsey

The Canadian Flowers For Food Society
USA alisondoyle@mac.com

CFFFS’s Vision Statement

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