The Richmond Food Aid Society Coalition invited me to a Zoom meeting, where I connected with individuals and faith groups dedicated to enhancing food security in the community. It was disheartening but not unexpected to learn that the supply of food donations is still insufficient to meet the growing demand. Nevertheless, I am hopeful that Continue reading

As a guest, I had the privilege of attending the Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition’s annual general meeting. I was deeply impressed by the hardworking volunteers and their impactful work to combat poverty in Richmond. During the meeting, the staff from VCH delivered an insightful presentation on addressing the stigma associated with substance use. We heard Continue reading

I met with a Bahai leader at a coffee shop this morning. His stories of faith and perseverance touched me despite facing persecution. We planned to meet again to explore spirituality and interfaith connections. After our meeting, I spoke to two gentlemen who were having a Bible study. The leader emphasized the importance of sharing Continue reading

I was privileged to attend Richmond Multicultural Community Services’ “Strengthening Our Cross-Cultural and Interfaith Connection” event.  To my surprise, it was an incredibly engaging and inspiring gathering. The organizers invited the Vancouver Playback Theatre (VPT) team to lead the session. VPT specializes in Playback Theatre, an interactive form of improvisational theatre that allows audience members Continue reading

I recently had an enlightening lunch with Fr. Matthew, a dedicated Street Outreach Priest in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES) for nearly two decades.  Fr. Matthew shared invaluable insights and experiences about street ministry with me. One aspect that particularly struck me was the fact that individuals as young as 45 are considered seniors in DTES, Continue reading

I recently had a meaningful conversation with an outreach worker at the Ann Vogel Clinic, where I received training on using a Naloxone Kit. The clinic provides outreach services and welcomes walk-in clients seeking harm reduction services or interested in discussing their stabilization or treatment options. During our conversation, I learned that a significant number Continue reading

Today, during my visit with MH, I learned about his challenges while sleeping on the street for several years. MH expressed his concerns about the increasing dangers of street life and his feelings of resignation while waiting for housing from BC Housing. Being homeless is much more difficult than many people realize. To help individuals Continue reading

Today, I conversed with Gabriel Yiu, a Hong Kong-born Canadian award-winning journalist, social activist, and businessman. We discussed the work to help people overcome biases on SOGI, harm reduction, and other social justice-related topics. I appreciated Gabriel quoting the verses from Micah: “to act justly and to love and walk humbly.” I told him that Continue reading

I met a young Cantonese-speaking man this morning. He is turning twenty this year and comes from a complicated family. Having not finished junior high, he needed to work to support himself. After coming to Canada a year ago, he had to take on two jobs to make ends meet. I hope to share the Continue reading

This afternoon, I had the privilege of accompanying Donna, a retired city outreach worker, to visit “M,” a homeless individual from Taiwan. It was inspiring to witness Donna’s unwavering commitment to supporting the homeless. M shared his experiences with us, highlighting the challenges he faces. It’s important to recognize that many people harbor biases and Continue reading