Truth Telling Requires Truth Listening
Indigenous Author and Educator, Dr. Pamela Rose Toulouse, wrote the book, Truth and Reconciliation in Canadian Schools
Community Ministry Office is Now Open
Yesterday, First United Community Ministry Office opened its doors to serve our DTES neighbourhood community at 360 Jackson Avenue. The opening ceremony was led by Lauren Sanders, Indigenous Spiritual Care Chaplain, and Dr. Cheryl Bear, Director of Community Ministry. Melaney Gleeson-Lyall, of the Point family in Musqueam and the Bob family in Snuneymuxw First Nation, […]
Supporter Profile: The Rev. Juanita Austin
Meet Juanita Austin, an avid supporter of FIRST UNITED, ordained minister with the United Church of Canada, and who recently wrote a book of hymns.
Volunteer Week: Meet Valerie
For National Volunteer Week we’re honoured to recognize one of our long-standing and dedicated volunteers, Valerie Purcell.
A new Easter tradition
This Easter we invite you to add a new tradition to your celebrations: the pursuit of justice. A special post by Dr Cheryl Bear
COVID-19 Update
Based on the recent COVID-19 case increases we’re providing an update about how we’re keeping the DTES and our staff safe
Happy Easter from First United!
Happy Easter from First United! To mark this day of celebration, Executive Director Carmen Lansdowne shares her thoughts and best wishes.
10 Years of Frontline Work
Cristien Donhuysen, Program Manager, describes how frontline work at First United has changed over the past 10 years.
Coldest Night of the Year 2021
February 20, 2021 may have marked Coldest Night of the Year but at First United and across BC our hearts were warm. CNOY is a national fundraising walk to raise awareness and funds for charities that support people experiencing homelessness and extreme poverty. After a two-year hiatus, First United participated in CNOY 2021 again and the outpouring […]
Women’s Memorial March
February 14th is the Annual Women’s Memorial March, a gathering and march of grief, love, and justice for missing and murdered women in the Downtown Eastside. In honour of the March, Dr Cheryl Bear, Director of Community Ministry at First United, writes about her relationship to community, missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, and the Downtown Eastside. “Do […]