Community Update | May 19, 2025
We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our community, neighbours, friends and donors from across Canada and the world who contributed to the KAPWA Strong Fund, which has raised $860,000 so far. This fund was launched in partnership with United Way BC, which has waived fees to ensure 100 per cent of proceeds go to victims, their families and the services and programs that will aid recovery.
So far, nine grants have been awarded to nonprofits and community groups, totaling $220,000. Filipino BC is among the grantees that will use funding for its crisis response efforts, including individual support for those who’ve been impacted by the tragic events of April 26. A Canadian Red Cross case manager is following up with families this week, and we’re prioritizing building capacity by creating a new support worker team. We’re also working to coordinate care and resources with organizations including Latincouver, South Vancouver Neighbourhood House, Canadian Red Cross, the Archdiocese of Vancouver and others.
The Kapwa Centre for Community Resilience was open for the Victoria Day holiday and welcomed 30 visitors today. Thank you Lola Mila for making a delicious warm pot of homemade arroz caldo for the Kapwa Centre, it was just what we needed to warm up on this rainy day. We also want to thank Ate Darlene for the sandwiches and pastries.
The remaining dates and times for the Kapwa Centre for the month of May are:
Friday, May 23 - 5 PM to 8 PM
Saturday, May 24 - 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Tuesday, May 27 - 5 PM to 8 PM
Friday, May 30 - 5 PM to 8 PM
Saturday, May 31 - 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Please follow our social media accounts as we highlight upcoming fundraisers that benefit the KAPWA STRONG Fund. People can also donate online by going to filipinobc.com or through several ongoing fundraisers. T&T Supermarket, London Drugs and Loblaws are inviting customers to donate at the cash register to stores across B.C. All proceeds will be donated through United Way BC to Filipino BC.
Thank you again for your support and generosity. Your donations will help us build capacity through a new care team, coordinate response with larger institutions and make funds available to others supporting people in their recovery.
