Community Update | May 9, 2025
Today, the Resilience Centre welcomed over 70 individuals, families and groups of friends looking for a place to gather, reflect, and reconnect. It offered a calm space where community members could share a meal, check in with one another, and find small moments of comfort in being together. For some, it was their first time at the centre, and for others, it was a familiar place to land.
A big thank you to the generous support of chefs and local businesses. Meals were provided by Klasik Inaasal and Noodle Express, coordinated by Chef TJ Conwi, Cyril De Ramos, and the volunteers of the Vancouver Filipino Meal Trains. Jollibee, Hapag Grill, and Ensaimada Moment also contributed, ensuring that everyone who came felt cared for and nourished.
The Resilience Centre will open again on Tuesday, May 13, from 5 to 8 PM. Everyone is welcome. We will be sharing the rest of the centre dates next week.
This week, mental health debrief sessions were offered for Lapu Lapu Day volunteers, including an in-person gathering on May 6 and a virtual session on May 8 facilitated by the Provincial Health Services Authority.
Filipino BC Chair RJ Aquino spoke at a recent event hosted by the Philippine Consulate General to provide an update on the ongoing efforts to support victims and those affected by the incident. He shared a message of unity, highlighting the strength and compassion shown by the Filipino community in recent weeks. RJ acknowledged how the community’s deep sense of care and connection makes it uniquely positioned to respond in moments of crisis. He also encouraged charities, non-profits and community organizations to apply for support through the KAPWA STRONG Fund.
The KAPWA STRONG Fund, created in partnership with United Way BC, is designed to support community-led recovery efforts in the wake of the tragic events that occurred on April 26, 2025. Grants of up to $25,000 are available for initiatives like:
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
Grant applications are reviewed by the United Way Grant Committee happen on a rolling basis to ensure timely access to funds. Approved grants will be disbursed via Interac e-transfer. Groups can contact United Way for any questions or support on the grant application process. Resources are in the works to support those submitting grants.
