Community Update | May 15, 2025
As families and community members continue to grieve and visit the memorial around John Oliver Secondary School, we’d like to gently remind the public that we are taking a victim-centred approach to the upkeep of the memorial. This does not mean that it’s being tended to, but rather that any decisions related to the temporary memorial have the input of the victims and loved ones first and foremost, under the principle of do no harm.
We kindly ask that community members and neighbours do not take it upon themselves to do any ad hoc site consolidation or moving of any objects at this time. The City of Vancouver has also posted signs in the area to help ensure the space remains accessible and respectful for everyone. We anticipate a more fulsome update next week.
A Canadian Red Cross case manager is working out of Filipino BC offices and has connected with individuals and families to identify immediate needs. More care workers will be joining the Filipino BC to work with people who were affected.
The newly renamed Kapwa Centre for Community Resilience opens tomorrow at its new location at Christ City Church, on 5887 Prince Edward St. in South Vancouver. Everyone impacted by the tragic events that occurred on April 26 following the Lapu Lapu Day Festival is welcome to have a warm meal, rest and gather with community members. Counsellors, social workers and other support services are available as well. The Kapwa Centre is open from 5 PM to 8 PM.
We’d love to hear from you! We're gathering stories and reflections from community members to help encourage others to come by and experience the Kapwa Centre for themselves. If you’re open to sharing a few words, anonymously or with your name, please email communications@filipinobc.com. Your voice can help give others a glimpse of the Kapwa Centre through your eyes and in your words.
Key stakeholders in South Vancouver will meet tomorrow to conduct a needs assessment and determine what supports are available and will be needed in the weeks and months to come as we transition into the recovery phase.
Filipino BC and other nonprofits and community groups are grateful for the public’s support during this difficult time. Many of our upcoming crisis response and recovery programs are supported by fundraising efforts that benefit the KAPWA STRONG Fund. Please have a look at our recent post about fundraisers happening this long weekend and ongoing efforts to support those impacted. You can also stay up-to-date by subscribing to our newsletter.
Finally, as we approach the third week since this tragedy unfolded, we would like to thank the community for keeping the 11 people who lost their lives and the dozens more who were injured in their hearts and minds. This event may fade away from the news cycle, but it has forever changed lives. Your support, your presence and your efforts will drive recovery and help us rebuild.
