Kamloops, British Columbia, Local 993 member Tony Pitzoff and his wife, Brigida Crosbie, have been feeding seniors, the homeless and anyone else in need for years, and their business — which operates with the philosophy of "people over profit" — is only growing.

"This work is deeply important to us because it stems from a commitment to serve others and uplift those in need," said Pitzoff, a journeyman wireman who manages daily operations and a host of other tasks, all for free. "Our vision is to inspire people to help one another, and by working together, we can address challenges like food insecurity, homelessness and isolation, showing that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they unite for a common purpose."

Crosbie and Pitzoff started Tydel Foods — the name is an amalgamation of two of their daughters' names, Tyanna and Delana — in 2020. Back then, it was run out of a truck. Today, they have multiple locations in their town of Chilliwack, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) east of Vancouver.

Tydel is known for serving high-quality meat at affordable prices, but it also offers produce and nonperishable items. Basically, whatever the community needs. And if someone can't afford it, they're likely to get their food for no cost. Since its inception, Tydel has provided more than 152,000 free meals to people dealing with food insecurity.

"Their efforts are a testament to the power of community and the difference one family can make," Local 993 Business Manager James Bicknell said. "Their shop goes far beyond just serving customers — they serve hope and compassion."

Pitzoff, an IBEW member since 1987, is now semi-retired, giving him more time to focus on Tydel. But the skills he used as a mentor to younger members still come in handy when he talks with customers.

"It's about meeting people where they are," he said. "Everybody needs something different, so you need to be a good listener and communicator."

For Crosbie, the work is personal. She grew up in a home that didn't always have enough food and was homeless for a time about 10 years ago.

"I know how it feels to struggle to make ends meet, and I never want anyone to ever feel that kind of pain," Crosbie said. "Tydel Foods is a way to give back, ensure others don't feel that same despair, and provide hope and dignity to the most vulnerable in our community."

Roughly one in 10 British Columbians live in poverty, according to the province's Office of Human Rights. More than 26,000 people experienced homelessness at some point in 2021. A significant number are seniors, a group Tydel helps by providing boxes filled with a month's worth of food for $125. But in keeping with the store's philosophy, and Crosbie and Pitzoff's generosity, if a senior can't afford it, they'll get the box for free. So far, Tydel has provided over 31,000 packages to struggling seniors. It also provides free or discounted foods to the surrounding areas of Chilliwack and to schools and daycares.

Since its inception, Tydel has served more than 180,000 people, with a fair amount of regulars stopping in for free soups and sandwiches.

"This work is at the heart of what we do, bringing dignity, hope and sustenance to those who need it most," said Crosbie, who worked at Fraser Health, an area health care provider, before retiring and starting Tydel. "We don't turn anyone away."

Despite its charity, as well as a host of volunteers, the store is able to turn a small profit, which goes right back into the services provided. (Crosbie's also known to donate her pension checks toward the effort.) And that's with selling steaks and other meats for less than the average grocery store. It's something that Crosbie finds surprising.

"The big thing in my mind is if I could give this price and I'm just a person off the street that's just an advocate in the community, then how come the bigger box stores can't give it at a much lower price?" she told the CBC in one of the numerous articles that have been written about their work.

Crosbie and Pitzoff split the duties of running four locations: two stores, a storage space and an office that also collects food and other items. Crosbie tends to be the face of the organization, with Pitzoff running much of the back end.

"I'm happy to be the strong wheel," he said. "I call her my celebrity."

Crosbie and Pitzoff's benevolence has been recognized by area organizations. In 2023, they received a Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Award, in the "inclusive environment" category, and the Betty Urquhart Community Service Award.

"There are three main elements that we all need: security, housing and food. We knew the biggest impact we could make was feeding people," Pitzoff said.

In addition to their year-round work, Crosbie and Pitzoff make sure no one goes hungry or neglected during the holidays, offering special meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Last year they provided a dedicated "mailbox" for letters to Santa, with every letter getting a reply.

"For some, the holidays can be a difficult time, filled with uncertainty rather than joy. We wanted to create a magical and wonderful Christmas experience where children can feel loved, cared for and special — even if it's through a simple letter from Santa," Crosbie said. "Every child deserves to feel the warmth and excitement of the season, and we hope these letters bring them a sense of joy, hope and belonging."

Crosbie and Pitzoff said they want Tydel Foods to be known not just as a place that provides affordable, high-quality food but as a catalyst for bringing the community together. By all accounts, they're succeeding. Customers with the means regularly bring in donations, including children sharing their allowances.

"Ultimately, we want Tydel Foods to be a symbol of hope, compassion and empowerment — a place where everyone feels valued and knows they can contribute to making a difference," Pitzoff said.

Local 993 is also making a donation.

"Their dedication to uplifting others exemplifies the core values of generosity and solidarity that we hold dear at Local 993," Bicknell said. "We are proud to stand with Tony and Brigida as they continue to make Chilliwack a better place for everyone."

For more information on Tydel Foods, and to make a donation, go to: www.tydelfoods.ca , or scan the QR code.