Community Update | May 17, 2025
The Kapwa Centre for Community Resilience welcomed about 30 individuals and families with children this afternoon. While it was a quieter day, the space remained a place of rest and conversation. As usual, the therapy dogs from St. John Ambulance were the stars of the Centre. We were especially grateful to a dedicated volunteer and their therapy dog who travelled all the way from Langley to support our community. The attendees enjoyed pancit and lumpia from Pampanga’s Cuisine. As part of our commitment to community care, we hope to continue to support and highlight different restaurants and shops along Fraser Street.
The Kapwa Centre reopens on Monday, May 19, from 5 PM to 8 PM at Christ City Church South Vancouver, located at 5887 Prince Edward St. We hope to see you there.
Yesterday, we had the opportunity to meet with stakeholders in South Vancouver, brought together by our friends at South Vancouver Neighbourhood House (SVNH). It was the first of many conversations as we begin to plan for the recovery phase and explore how we can come together, as a neighbourhood and community, to heal, rebuild and support one another.
A heartfelt thank you to SVNH for creating a welcoming space to bring so many of us together for this important discussion. We look forward to continued collaboration as we move forward with care and intention.
Our team is actively engaging in community outreach throughout the neighbourhood and with local organizations and groups. In the coming days, you may see members of the Filipino BC along Fraser St, connecting with community members and helping spread the word about the Centre. We’re committed to ensuring that those who need support know where to find it and that they’re welcomed with care and compassion.
This evening, we attended the Cebuano Society of Canada’s “A Night of Community Healing and Unity” to share what resources are available to people affected and invite them to the Kapwa Centre.
We’d like to thank the generous donors who both contributed $2,000 to the KAPWA STRONG Fund tonight:
88 Supermarket
Eugene Reimer Middle School leadership team, students who pulled donations out of their Vaisakhi fund
We would also like to remind you of two KAPWA STRONG Fund fundraising events that are taking place this weekend. Tomorrow, Sunday, May 18, 3 PM, at Studio Form & Function: You are invited for an afternoon of music, art therapy, and community. The first of two first pillows and blankets community fundraisers: KAPWA RISING. For tickets, visit Wings Vocal Collective & Studio Form Function. Then, on Monday, May 19, at Fortune Sound Club: Magkasama (“together” in Filipino) — a celebration of Filipino culture, resilience, and community. Join Fortune Sound for a powerful night featuring very special guests P-Lo, MANILA GREY, and Noodles. The night will showcase Filipino artists and community allies through dancers, live performances, DJs, art installations, barbers offering haircuts, a silent auction and raffle with nearly $10,000 in prizes, and more. Doors open at 8 PM. For tickets, please see Fortune Sound Club & Steven Gamboa.
