BC Government Announces New Measures to Protect Renters
On Tuesday, the BC Government announced a new bill that addresses several recommendations made in FIRST UNITED’s law reform platform “Everyone Needs a Home: Solutions for Preventing Homelessness, Evictions, and Displacement.” We were pleased when BC Housing Minister Ravi Khalon announced proposed amendments to the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) that include a number of renter […]
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Tomorrow is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and we invite you to join us in both reflection and action for reconciliation. Three years on from the first marking of this day, unmarked graves continue to be discovered, and long-told stories and truths are validated. Validation though formal investigations should not be necessary. Survivors should […]
I’m a senior survivor
You could say I’ve had a rough go of it. I was in prison for thirty years. I was never violent or anything…I’d robbed banks, and I paid for it. Three years ago, I got out. Well, when they let you out after 30 years inside, you don’t really have anywhere to go. You’re on […]
Stepping Up in Tough Times
This spring, Chandos Construction joined First United for the first time as a platinum sponsor for our 13th Annual Golf Tournament for the Homeless. But when COVID-19 hit, we made the tough decision to cancel the tournament. That meant we faced the loss of more than $100,000 in critical program funds the golf community raises […]
Care During COVID-19
“COVID-19 has been scary, but I’ve felt taken care of here,” says Alex, a resident of First United’s women’s shelter since January. As word spread about the threat of COVID-19 in early March, things in the Downtown Eastside started to change quickly. “I remember the day they had to start the distancing. It’s usually so […]
10 Weeks in a Pandemic: Reflections from The Rev. Dr. Carmen Lansdowne
My office looks out over East Hastings from the second floor of our beat up, old building in the Downtown Eastside. Some mornings as I arrive, I take a breath and look out the window to the street below. It’s a brief opportunity for reflection in what has been a whirlwind ten weeks. Being the […]
Your Input Needed: Take the First United Survey
First United is considering a plan to construct a brand new, multi-purpose building to replace our aging facility. That plan includes potentially undertaking a major Capital Campaign to raise the funds needed. As part of the feasibility study, we need your help! STEP 1: Click here to read the Project Overview. The Project Overview document will […]
COVID-19 FAQs: First United Programs, Services and Support
As we continue to serve the community we love so much, First United is monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic closely and taking steps to respond to keep everyone safe. We are sharing here some responses to frequently asked questions about our programs and services. Stay safe, everyone! PROGRAMS AND SERVICES – FAQs Is the shelter at […]
News: Happy Retirement, Reverend Jim!
Please join us in wishing Reverend Jim Hatherly a happy retirement! As of the end of June 2020, Jim will step back from his role as Director of Community Ministry at First United. Since May 2017, Jim has been a key part of the First United community, building relationships with people in and around First, […]
As a nurse, I know how serious this is: A letter from Heather Clarke
I worked in health care – nursing, primarily – for more than 50 years. I’m now retired, and I serve on the Board of Directors at First United. My experience means I know just how serious the COVID-19 situation is in the Downtown Eastside. Will you pitch in to keep the Downtown Eastside safe during COVID-19? […]