Community Update | May 5, 2025
In Tagalog, we say, magpahinga, which means to rest.
And the Resilience Centre is made for people to do just that. When it reopens tomorrow, Tuesday, May 6, from 5 to 8 PM, anyone who has been affected by the tragedy can gather for a meal, connect with other community members, learn about resources and rest. The Centre will also be open from 5 to 8 PM on Wednesday, May 7 and Friday, May 9.
Filipino chefs and businesses have been generously donating food to the Centre to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort to guests. Whether you stay for a few minutes or a few hours, this is a space to connect, rest and be with others (and spend time with the wonderful therapy dogs and their handlers, provided by St. John Ambulance BC and Yukon).
The Vancouver Police Department has confirmed 11 people have lost their lives due to the tragedy that occurred on April 26, 2025, after the Lapu Lapu Day Festival. The VPD’s Mobile Community Support Centre is open Tuesday from 12 to 8 p.m. at E 43rd Ave & Fraser St. After tomorrow, the Victim Services Unit will reassess the need.
Filipino BC has convened a Joint Task Force, which includes the City of Vancouver, United Way BC, the Vancouver Foundation, the Canadian Red Cross, the Archdiocese of Vancouver, the Province of British Columbia, Provincial Health Services Authority and other community stakeholders, who have been meeting daily since April 28th to coordinate a crisis response effort.
Throughout this crisis response, Filipino BC has been urging decision-makers to allocate resources and, critically, culturally appropriate support, to meet the urgent and long-term needs of those impacted in the Filipino community and beyond. We remain committed to ensuring that no one is left behind.
With that being said, community organizations play a vital role in addressing urgent needs and creating long-term change. Rooted in lived experience, we understand the unique challenges faced by the people we serve, often filling the gaps left by formal systems.
This is why we’re making sure charities, non-profits, and community organizations can access the KAPWA STRONG Fund, which is now accepting grant applications. The maximum amount to apply for is up to $15,000. Eligible initiatives include:
Immediate to mid-term recovery provision, and strategic ongoing support for those impacted by this emergency
Healing supports as well as basic needs
Mental health and counselling support
Opportunities for community members to grieve
Community-led events
Whether it’s responding to a crisis or promoting healing, community organizations are essential in ensuring that no one gets left behind. Applications must be submitted through the United Way BC Grant Portal: https://uwbc.ca/lapu/.
