The government is providing a new one-time relief grant, between $1,000 and $10,000, for eligible businesses affected by the latest round of shutdowns brought on by the COVID-19 Omicron variant. Applications for funding will be received until the end of February 2022. For more information and to apply, visit www.gov.bc.ca/business-relief. See the official announcement below. … Read more
Though we are not out of the pandemic yet, the world continues to slowly open up and many of the Richmond PRC member organizations and are offering their services again, whether, in-person, virtually or via a hybrid model. Check back weekly for regular news and updates from service providers and the various levels of government. … Read more
The RPRC has submitted a submission to the City of Richmond Planning Committee regarding the latest Housing Needs Assessment 2021. The following report was discussed at the council meeting held on Nov. 30, which is now available to stream on the government’s YouTube channel. My name is Deirdre Whalen, and I am speaking on behalf … Read more
The Collaborative Action Plan to Reduce and Prevent Poverty in Richmond was presented to Richmond City Council during a Planning Committee meeting on Nov. 30, which is available for viewing online. The RPRC has written a letter, below, in support of the plan: Mayor & Councillors Re: 2021-2031 Collaborative Action Plan to Reduce and Prevent … Read more
RPRC president De Whalen and team member Theresa Head spoke at the City of Richmond public hearing on Nov. 15 about the inadequacy of the Low-End Market Rental program, as well as the benefits of subsidized housing. Below is the official submission, or watch on YouTube. Written and Oral Submission to City of Richmond Public … Read more
Here is a letter written to the Richmond News by RPRC president De Whalen in response to a flurry of public input regarding a lack of truly affordable housing in the city. Dear Editor, Re: “Tweaking won’t solve housing crisis,” Opinion “Non-profit looks for city support,” News, Oct. 21. “Support housing plan,” “Swift action needed,” … Read more
The Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition (RPRC) held its first annual general meeting on Nov. 10, 2021. The meeting was a hybrid between Zoom and in-person attendees due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. At this inaugural AGM, the board of directors were confirmed by membership vote, the constitution and bylaws were formally approved and the 2020 … Read more