This is the 2025 edition of the Richmond PRC information round-up, containing useful weekly news and announcements for low-income residents, from community service providers, all levels of government and our members. If you, or someone you know, would like to join the RPRC please visit the Contact Us section to learn more.
Tuesday March 5, 2025
Greetings to members and friends of the Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition (RPRC). As tax season is upon us, the RPRC is sharing a list of free income tax preparation services in Richmond. Please take a look to see if you, or someone you know, is eligible for assistance.
This month has a number of significant dates to celebrate and observe, including today, which is Ash Wedneday. March 9, is Daylight Savings. Purim begins March 13th, and Holi begins on March 14th. Highlights of this edition include: Richmond supportive housing cancellation a ‘victory’ for whom? (Housing), Richmond RCMP cracking down on distracted driving (Transportation), and Vancouver’s Poorest Area Braces for Mayor’s Policing ‘Barrage’ (Community Safety).
This is our 5th Roundup for 2025. If you have some news, just send it to info@richmondprc.org or hello@richmondprc.org and we will endeavour to spread the word among our members and associates.
Member News
->Richmond Food Bank 2024 Impact Report and Zine Workshop (Thanks to RFBS)
We are proud to share the impact of your generosity and dedication, which has enabled us to support our neighbors through another year. See our 2024 year-in-review infographic and read the full impact report.
Join the Collaborative Zine Workshop and share your experience of getting around to feed yourself well: During an afternoon of shared food and creativity, participants will use mixed media to depict their experience of transportation and accessing food. Pages will be collected and added to a zine published in autumn 2025.
No prior art experience required. Come as you are.
March 14, 1-4pm
Richmond Food Bank Society
5800 Cedarbridge Way, Richmond BC
->The Richmond Centre for Disability in collaboration with Pathways Clubhouse Society and Balanced Body Fitness want you to join our MOVEMENT! (Thanks to RCD)
The community of people who identify as living with physical, mental, intellectual, emotional, or invisible illness or disability can experience many barriers when attempting to CONNECT!
Especially, in the winter months where the weather and isolation can challenge your mental and physical health. It makes socializing, connecting, and exercising extra challenging.
Call Dave at 604-232-2404 or email him for more information.
Housing News
->Letters: Richmond supportive housing cancellation a ‘victory’ for whom? (Thanks to Richmond News)
A letter writer and RPRC member challenges a Facebook post that called the Cambie and Sexsmith project cancellation a ‘victory for public opinion.’ Read the letter here.
->Richmond councillor asks for public disclosure of closed-door decisions (Thanks to Richmond News)
The decision on the Cambie and Sexsmith housing project was made in an in-camera meeting. Read more about the lack of public disclosure on this decision.
->Here’s how much it cost to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Metro Vancouver in February (Thanks to Richmond News)
Rent prices for new listings increased from January to February 2025. Scroll down to read about how Richmond and Burnaby were the fourth and fifth most expensive markets for newly-listed rental units in February 2025, with rents averaging $2,337 and $2,251, respectively.
->Housing Resource: BC Rent Bank
As a renter in British Columbia, you face some of the highest rental rates and one of the lowest vacancy rates in Canada. When an unforeseen crisis arises, you may find yourself having to choose between paying your rent, putting food on the table, or keeping the lights on.
More information: https://bcrentbank.ca/
Food Security News
->Food Security Resources
No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Programs
This document highlights a range of community resources available to individuals and families living in Richmond who are experiencing food insecurity. Services include take-out and sit-down meals, as well as food hampers with delivery and pick-up options available. The No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Program is regularly updated to have the most current information available.
Transportation News
->Richmond RCMP cracking down on distracted driving (Thanks to Richmond News)
Distracted driving is a contributing factor in 38% of crashes: ICBC. Read the full story.
->Resource for transit: TransLink Alerts
For the most up-to-date alerts regarding traffic and weather conditions.
Health News
->The Office of the Seniors Advocate wants to hear from family caregivers about their experiences helping a loved one access publicly-funded long-term care in B.C. (Thanks to OSA)
The survey deadline has been extended until March 18th. Access the survey.
->Support and Healing for Survivors of Forced or Coerced Sterilization (Thanks to Reproductive justice Survivor’s Circle)
Healing Support Funds are available to Survivors to access healing supports such as grief counselling, Traditional ceremony, cultural supports, mental health and addictions treatment, recovery programs, fertility programs or other trauma supports and services.
Funds will also be available to eligible Group/Organization Applicants to support community-based or grassroots initiatives led by, or involving, Survivors of forced and coerced sterilization.
Application deadline : March 31st. Learn more.
->The urgent mental health needs of young people: Lessons for Canada from a global commission (Thanks to The Conversation)
Canada urgently needs to take action to support the well-being of young people and secure a healthier and more prosperous future for generations to come. See the article.
->Dental hygienists urge federal parties to keep funding dental care program (Thanks to Richmond News)
The program was launched initially for seniors in December 2023 and has been expanded in phases. Read the story.
->Health Resource: Healthcare in Richmond
https://richmonddivision.ca/patients/
The above resource link has information such as where to go to get care; find a family physician (FP) or nurse practitioner (NP); mental health and substance use support; and community support.
Please scroll the entire page as there is lots of information from Richmond Division of Family Practice (RDFP) and Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH). Check the imbeded links for the topics of interest.
Community Safety News
->Vancouver’s Poorest Area Braces for Mayor’s Policing ‘Barrage’ (Thanks to The Tyee)
Despite VPD assurances, dozens of groups protest that ‘surges’ won’t help those in need. See the article.
Government News
->Update on the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) (Thanks to Donna Lee)
- Anyone already enrolled in the CDCP will need to renew their coverage before June 1, 2025.
- For organizations in Western Canad that would like to host a Service Canada information session for their clients about the CDCP, or receive more information about the plan to better support their clients, please Request a Service Canada Outreach activity.
- This link has information more generally on Service Canada’s outreach supports for individuals and organizations.
- Service Canada also regularly participates at the monthly Community Services Pop Ups, held 3:00-5:00pm on the 2nd Thursday of each month at Brighouse Library, with the exception of this May, 2025. Please click here to see RPL’s schedule.
We hope this information that will assist Richmond residents to access dental care supports.
->B.C. budget pushes deficit to $10.9 billion (Thanks to CBC News)
Budget includes ICBC rebate of $110 and more money for low-income and elderly renters. Read more about the new budget for BC.
->Provincial Government Resource:
Buy BC: A guide to buying within our province can be found here: https://buybc.gov.bc.ca
Tuesday February 18, 2025
Greetings to members and friends of the Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition (RPRC): We very much hope you enjoyed the Family Day long weekend. As Black History Month proceeds, we encourage all our readers to join the free events hosted by Brighouse Library, and we continue to share the Black History Month Toolkit as a resource. Ramadan begins on February 28th, and we wish a peaceful and happy month to those of you who are fasting.
Highlights of this edition include: Termination of Housing at Cambie and Sexsmith (Housing), B.C. LifeLabs workers launch strike over wages and working conditions (Training/Employment), and Statistics Canada reports higher wages and better benefits in not-for-profit centres (Childcare).
This is our 4th Roundup for 2025. If you have some news, just send it to info@richmondprc.org or hello@richmondprc.org and we will endeavour to spread the word among our members and associates.
Member News
->Richmond Food Bank Hiring a Warehouse & Distribution Coordinator (Thanks to RFBS)
Are you passionate about food justice and community service? The Richmond Food Bank is seeking a dynamic, caring, and compassionate individual to join our team as a Warehouse and Distribution Coordinator.
See the full job description.
->Seedy Saturday with Urban Bounty (Thanks to Urban Bounty)
Urban Bounty is excited to invite you to the first Seedy Saturday in Richmond since 2019!
What: A day of celebrating seeds, the spring season, and the incredible growers of Richmond! Activities will include:
- Seed Swap (details here!)
- Seed vendors (including BC Eco-Seed Co-op and Seeds of the Revolution) selling quality seeds with heritage and heirloom varieties
- Workshops and educational demonstrations
- Master Gardener Q&A with the Richmond Garden Club
- Children’s activities courtesy of the Terra Nova Nature School (10:00am-12:00pm
Where: Terra Nova Red Barn (2631 Westminster Hwy, Richmond, BC V7C 1A8)
When: March 8th 2025, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Free admission, no registration required! Any donations will go to support Urban Bounty’s Seed Security program.
->The Richmond Centre for Disability in collaboration with Pathways Clubhouse Society and Balanced Body Fitness want you to join our MOVEMENT! (Thanks to RCD)
The community of people who identify as living with physical, mental, intellectual, emotional, or invisible illness or disability can experience many barriers when attempting to CONNECT! Especially, in the winter months where the weather and isolation can challenge your mental and physical health. It makes socializing, connecting, and exercising extra challenging.
Call Dave at 604-232-2404 or email him for more information.
->BIPOC Inclusion and Capacity Building Anti-Racism Series (Thanks to Alan Hill and RMCS)
Do you live in Richmond? Please complete this survey (available in multiple languages) to help us make Richmond a stronger and safer community for all!
Housing News
->Letters: Some in Richmond see the homeless as ‘problems, not people’ (Thanks to Richmond News)
A letter writer says people with ‘entitled privilege’ are eroding community building, basic needs. Read the letter.
->Update: Richmond mayor announces ‘termination’ of Cambie and Sexsmith supportive housing (Thanks to Richmond News)
Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon says he’s ‘very disappointed’ at the decision to cancel the project. Full story.
->’Horrendous’: Heating issue leaves Vancouver seniors in the cold (Thanks to Vancouver is Awesome)
Some elderly tenants in supportive housing are vulnerable and don’t have anyone checking in on them, says daughter of one resident. Read more.
->Black Joy: Resistance, Resilience, and What it Means to Black Canadian Youth Experiencing Homelessness (Thanks to Homeless Hub)
“Black Joy is not found in the absence of pain and suffering. It exists through it.”
Watch this video to learn about the importance of Black Joy in our society, how it acts as a form of resistance, and its significance for Black youth who are experiencing homelessness.
->Housing Resource: BC Rent Bank
As a renter in British Columbia, you face some of the highest rental rates and one of the lowest vacancy rates in Canada. When an unforeseen crisis arises, you may find yourself having to choose between paying your rent, putting food on the table, or keeping the lights on.
More information: https://bcrentbank.ca/
Food Security News
->Food Security Resources
No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Programs
This document highlights a range of community resources available to individuals and families living in Richmond who are experiencing food insecurity. Services include take-out and sit-down meals, as well as food hampers with delivery and pick-up options available. The No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Program is regularly updated to have the most current information available.
Transportation News
->Resource for transit: translink alerts
For the most up-to-date alerts regarding traffic and weather conditions.
Training/ Employment News
->B.C. LifeLabs workers launch strike over wages and working conditions (Thanks to CBC News)
LifeLabs says essential services will remain, but strike may result in rotating lab closures. Read more about the strike.
Health News
->Why so many people in Canada seem to be sick right now (Thanks to CBC News)
Influenza widespread in many parts of the country, Public Health Agency of Canada says. Learn about why, future predictions, and how to protect yourself from influenza.
->Health Resource: Healthcare in Richmond
https://richmonddivision.ca/patients/
The above resource link has information such as where to go to get care; find a family physician (FP) or nurse practitioner (NP); mental health and substance use support; and community support.
Please scroll the entire page as there is lots of information from Richmond Division of Family Practice (RDFP) and Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH). Check the imbeded links for the topics of interest.
Community Safety News
->Richmond students urge government to regulate social media for youth (Thanks to Richmond News)
Teens warn about the mental health impact of social media use. Full story.
->Threats of deportation, arrest used by fraudsters to scam Richmond-based Chinese community (Thanks to Richmond News)
RCMP say this is a new version of the ‘foreign police scam.’
->AutismBC pushes for extra education, training after neurodivergent teen shot, killed by police in Surrey (Thanks to Vancouver City News)
The shooting death of a Surrey teen on Sunday has left the community feeling “fear and worry” about whether police and other officials know how to safely interact with autistic people. See the article.
Childcare News
->Statistics Canada reports higher wages and better benefits in not-for-profit centres (Thanks to Child Care Now)
A new report released by Statistics Canada in December 2024 further analyzes data from its 2022 Canadian Study on the Provision of Child Care Services. Read a summary of the report here.
->Setting the record straight on Canada’s $10 a day Child Care Plans (Thanks to Child Care Now)
Since its implementation, the $10 a Day Plan has received ongoing media attention, from supporters and critics alike. It is unfortunate that some critics have used and manipulated data to inaccurately suggest that the program is not working. Read about why this program is more effective that proposed alternatives.
Government News
->B.C. gov’t to freeze hiring, cancel grocery rebate amid U.S. tariff threats (Thanks to Vancouver City News)
Speaking to media Thursday, Finance Minister Brenda Bailey says the tariffs already pose the threat of 100,000 jobs lost in all industries province-wide. Full story.
->Buy BC (Thanks to BC Government)
A guide to buying within our province can be found here: https://buybc.gov.bc.ca
Tuesday February 4, 2025
Greetings to members and friends of the Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition (RPRC): We hope that you have been able to stay safe and warm during the cold temperatures this week. This edition of the Roundup is quite long, so please grab a a beverage and make yourself comfortable.
Some upcoming significant dates include: Valentine’s Day is February 14th, BC Family Day is February 17th, and Ramadan begins on February 28th. For those who are still looking to mark the Year of the Snake, Brighouse Library is hosting a belated Lunar New Year Celebration on Saturday, February 8th, 2025. Black History Month also begins on February 1st, and we encourage all our readers to join the free events hosted by Brighouse Library. RPL librarian Scott Marsden has written a review of guest author Ruby Diaz’s book. Janice Lambert at Literacy Richmond has also shared this Black History Month Toolkit as a resource.
Highlights of this edition include: Challenges to Aging in the Right Place for Older Adults Experiencing Homelessness (Housing), City of Richmond launches grant program to accelerate affordable rental housing (Housing), and Report’s Recommendations for Disabled Kids are Urgent (Childcare). This is our 3rd Roundup for 2025. If you have some news, just send it to info@richmondprc.org or hello@richmondprc.org and we will endeavour to spread the word among our members and associates.
Member News
->RCRG Prepares for Leadership Transition and New Executive Director (Thanks to RCRG)
Later this year, RCRG will mark the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter.
Ed Gavsie, our President & CEO for the past decade, is retiring as of March 31. He’ll be succeeded by RCRG’s longtime General Manager Jocelyn Wong, who will officially become Executive Director on April 1.
If anyone’s capable of filling Ed’s shoes – and taking RCRG boldly into the future – it’s Jocelyn Wong. An accomplished non-profit professional, she’s been with the organization for 18 years, during which she’s managed, coordinated, or supported every one of our programs and services.
Simply put, nobody knows our organization better than Jocelyn. More importantly, nobody’s better equipped to amplify RCRG’s potential as a community builder, a service provider, and a hub for volunteering and giving.
She’s been instrumental in getting us to where we are, and now, as incoming Executive Director, she’ll have a well-earned opportunity to chart where we go next. All of us at RCRG are ready – and excited – to follow her lead.
-> Circles of Support – Pre-Natal Program (Thanks to Rachel Gilder and RFP)
The group will be running in person at Richmond Family Place (8660 Ash St, Richmond, BC), every Thursday from March 6 to April 10, 2025. The course will be from 5.00-6.30pm each of those 6 Thursdays.
->Richmond Centre for Disability is hiring for a new Executive Director (Thanks to George Pope and RCD)
Due to retirement, the RCD is hiring for a new Executive Director who reports to the governance board, and manages the operational affairs of our busy centre. We follow IL Canada’s definitions and models for an IL Centre.
Position Summary:
The Executive Director (ED) will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction to RCD, ensuring the organization remains true to its mission while adapting to future needs. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will oversee all aspects of the organization’s operations, including program development, financial management,community engagement, and staff leadership. The ED will play a critical role infacilitating a smooth transition in senior leadership and positioning RCD for continued success.
Application Instructions:
Interested candidates are invited to submit the following:
- A cover letter expressing your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the mission and values of RCD
- A detailed resume outlining your qualifications and experience
- Contact information for three professional references
Application Deadline: January 6, 2025
Submission Method: Please send your application materials to <rob> @rcdrichmond.org with the subject line “Executive Director Application – [Your Name]”.
We thank all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
For more information, please visit the RCD website.
Housing News
->Challenges to Aging in the Right Place for Older Adults Experiencing Homelessness (Thanks to De Whalen and Homeless Hub)
The results of this qualitative study capture the downstream effects of an aging society that prioritizes exclusionary housing policies and a weak social safety net. Structural responses to promote AIRP among the growing number of older adults experiencing homelessness are discussed.
->City of Richmond launches grant program to accelerate affordable rental housing (Thanks to Donna Lee and Richmond Sentinel)
Eligible non-profit organizations, cooperatives and homebuilders can now apply to the City of Richmond for grants to accelerate the development of affordable rental housing. The grants will reduce potential barriers to the timely construction of homes for families, seniors and vulnerable residents.
The Richmond News also wrote about this grant program, and grants can be applied for via the City of Richmond’s Grant Program page.
->Vancouver mayor rejects new supportive housing projects, promises ‘crackdown’ on gangs (Thanks to CTV News)
Vancouver’s mayor intends to reject any new supportive housing projects proposed in his city, as he promises an undefined police response against “criminal networks.” Read the full story.
->’Do not occupy’: B.C. single mom learns ‘toxic’ apartment should have been off the market (Thanks to CTV News)
A Port Coquitlam mother of two is looking for a new apartment for the second time in less than six months, and she says her landlord’s failure to adequately address mould and moisture issues forced her out. Read more here.
->Housing Resource: BC Rent Bank
As a renter in British Columbia, you face some of the highest rental rates and one of the lowest vacancy rates in Canada. When an unforeseen crisis arises, you may find yourself having to choose between paying your rent, putting food on the table, or keeping the lights on.
More information: https://bcrentbank.ca/
Food Security News
->Food Security Resources
No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Programs
This document highlights a range of community resources available to individuals and families living in Richmond who are experiencing food insecurity. Services include take-out and sit-down meals, as well as food hampers with delivery and pick-up options available. The No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Program is regularly updated to have the most current information available.
Transportation News
->’May be delays’: TransLink warns snow could affect Metro Vancouver commutes (Thanks to Richmond News)
Your trip could be a little longer this morning as wintry weather has much of Metro Vancouver in its grasp.
->Behind the Canada Line’s New Stop, Years in the Making (Thanks to The Tyee)
Capstan Station is finally open. How did Richmond get developers to chip in? Read the story.
->TransLink is proposing changes to create these 10 Vancouver bus networks (Thanks to NS News)
The routes were determined based on public input in the authority’s Burrard Peninsula Area Transport Plan. Please scroll down to Plan M to see proposals that include Richmond.
->Feds giving $663M for Metro Vancouver transit, but funding woes remain: TransLink CEO (Thanks to Castanet)
The CEO of Metro Vancouver’s transit operator says he’s grateful for the federal government kicking in tens of millions in annual capital funding over the next decade — but the money doesn’t solve TransLink’s looming operational financial woes.
->Resource for transit: translink alerts
For the most up-to-date alerts regarding traffic and weather conditions.
Training/ Employment News
->Quebec union plans legal action against Amazon over closures (Thanks to CBC News)
‘This is not the way we do business in Quebec,’ says CSN president. The union representing Amazon workers at a warehouse that was shut down last month is calling for a boycott and preparing a legal challenge against the company.
Health News
->B.C. specialist doctors sound the alarm on long wait-lists (Thanks to CBC News)
Patients with urgent cases sometimes wait 4 weeks, spokesperson says. More here.
->Unregulated drugs killed fewer people in 2024 in B.C., but advocates say numbers still far too high (Thanks to CBC News)
B.C. Coroners Service says 2,253 people, or more than 6 per day, were killed by unregulated drugs.
->Border security and Canada’s opioid crisis: Is there a tangible solution, or is it just political theater? (Thanks to Fr. Bill Mok)
->Health Resource: Healthcare in Richmond
https://richmonddivision.ca/patients/
The above resource link has information such as where to go to get care; find a family physician (FP) or nurse practitioner (NP); mental health and substance use support; and community support.
Please scroll the entire page as there is lots of information from Richmond Division of Family Practice (RDFP) and Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH). Check the imbeded links for the topics of interest.
->Whiplash: How Big Swings in Wet and Dry Weather Fuel Infernos (Thanks to The Tyee)
A global climate trend set the stage for LA’s fires, explains scientist Daniel Swain. Read the story.
->Temperatures at north pole 20C above average and beyond ice melting point (thanks to The Guardian)
Scientists say unusually mild temperatures linked to low-pressure system over Iceland directing strong flow of warm air towards North Pole.
Childcare News
->Column: Kids with special needs are being left behind (Thanks to Richmond News)
“But making sure all children live up to their full potential will save money in the long run.” Read the column.
Further analysis of the same report at the Tyee:
->Report’s Recommendations for Disabled Kids are ‘Urgent,’ Advocate Says (Thanks to The Tyee)
‘We will respond to what we’re hearing,’ says Jodie Wickens, the province’s new minister of children and family development. See the article.
Full original report is here: https://rcybc.ca/reports-and-publications/too-many-left-behind/
Government News
->Richmond community resources program continues into 2025 (Thanks to Richmond News)
Free drop-in services are available every Sunday at Ironwood Library.
Tuesday January 21, 2025
Greetings to members and friends of the Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition (RPRC): For those who celebrate Lunar New Year, we hope your upcoming Year of the Snake will begin with joy and good fortune. Richmond events for festivities include Silk Road Music: A Lunar New Year Celebration, on Saturday, February 1st, 2025, and a Lunar New Year Celebration on Saturday, February 8th, 2025 at Brighouse Library. Black History Month also begins on February 1st, and we encourage all our readers to join the free events hosted by Brighouse Library.
Highlights of this edition include: End the Apartment Ban (Housing), A petition to stop Loblaws from cheating customers (Food Security), and Broken promises to International Students (Training/Employment ).
This is our 2nd Roundup for 2025. If you have some news, just send it to info@richmondprc.org or hello@richmondprc.org and we will endeavour to spread the word among our members and associates.
Member News
-> Facts & Snacks: Free Savings and Investing Workshop (Thanks to FSGV and Donna Lee)
Please check Family Services of Greater Vancouver’s event pages for January 28th (Ironwood Library) and for February 18(Brighouse Library).
Please also see the Richmond Public Library event pages for January 28th and February 25, both at Ironwood Library.
Housing News->Worried about Infrastructure Costs? Then End the Apartment Ban (Thanks to Policy Note)
It’s far cheaper to build and maintain public infrastructure to service denser forms of housing. Learn about the many benefits to increasing density.
->Richmond family of four displaced after Bridgeport house fire (Thanks to Richmond News)
Indigenous family reflects and advocate on the importance of tenant insurance after fire. Read the family’s story.
->Two evicted women tell their story: ‘The landlords had no empathy.’ (Thanks to The Conversation)
When it comes to the housing crisis, little attention is paid to social relations. Understanding this crisis, and thinking about housing justice, requires an understanding of how the increasingly unequal relationships around housing manifest themselves. Read more about the evicted women and the documentary.
->Richmond Centre redevelopment second phase includes 1,300+ homes (Thanks to Richmond News)
Residents are expected to move into the first towers shortly. More about the redevelopment here.
-> Social Isolation and Loneliness Among People Living with Experience of Homelessness (Thanks to Homeless Hub)
This scoping review compiles and examines evidence on SIL among people with lived experience of homelessness and explore how it negatively impacts their well-being. See the article.
-> Forgotten Rights: Seniors Not Afforded Equal Rent Protection (Thanks to Office of the Seniors Advocate BC)
This report, first published in the summer of 2024, highlights the practice of many landlords to ignore the RTA and leave seniors facing annual cost increases ranging from the rate of inflation to as much as 24%.
Food Security News
->Kudos: Richmond run/walk club raises money for food bank (Thanks to Richmond News)
This year’s fundraising efforts exceeded $3,000. Full story here.
->Richmond Farm School benefits from $100K grant (Thanks to Richmond News)
Regenerative, sustainable farming practices are key components of the KPU program. Read more about the program and their collaboration with local Indigenous groups.
->A CBC investigation revealed that Loblaws has been caught cheating customers by selling underweighted meat. (Thanks to Leadnow)
The worst part? When the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) alerted Loblaws to the problem, Loblaws claimed they had already addressed it. And yet less than a year later, CBC’s investigation found the exact same problem. Please sign the petition calling on CFIA to hold Loblaws accountable for cheating their customers.
->Food Security Resources
No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Programs
This document highlights a range of community resources available to individuals and families living in Richmond who are experiencing food insecurity. Services include take-out and sit-down meals, as well as food hampers with delivery and pick-up options available. The No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Program is regularly updated to have the most current information available.
Training/ Employment News
->Broken promises are why some international students turn to seeking asylum (Thanks to The Conversation)
Canada faces a major contradiction in its immigration policies. Thousands of international students, once celebrated as “ideal immigrants,” are now turning to the asylum system.
->Labour Force Statistics Highlights (Thanks to BC Government Stats)
The unemployment rate in British Columbia was 6.0% in December 2024, up 0.3 percentage points from November and up 0.5 percentage points from 12 months earlier. Read more about labour force numbers here.
Health News
->To Address Bird Flu, Reform Chicken Farming (Thanks to The Tyee)
The virus points to weaknesses in our food system that need to change. Read more about how we can reduce the risk of avian flu through better practices.
->Richmond filmmakers shed light on assisted dying caregivers (Thanks to Richmond News)
“I want caregivers to know it’s okay to not be okay,” says local filmmaker. Read the full interview.
Childcare News
->‘We Need to Take Care of Our Own Children’ (Thanks to The Tyee)
Inside the fight for Indigenous jurisdiction over child services in Canada. Read the first installment of an ongoing series here.
Government News
->Community Resource: Visit the BC Benefits Connector (Thanks to Kelly Greene, MLA)
Please visit: gov.bc.ca/BCBenefitsConnector to find benefits and savings for things like energy bills, transportation, education and training, and health care.
->’They will feel it’: B.C. premier says province won’t hold back amid looming U.S. trade war (Thanks to Richmond News)
‘We should really be thinking carefully about spending our money in that country,’ says Premier David Eby when asked about Canadians planning travel to the U.S. Read the full story.
Tuesday January 7, 2025
Greetings to members and friends of the Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition (RPRC). We hope your first week of 2025 is off to a great start, full of renewed energy after the holiday break.
January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Canada. Significant upcoming days this month include: Wednesday, January 15th is MLK Jr Day. While Wednesday, January 29th is Lunar New Year.
Highlights of this edition include: How to Build More Homes Quicker (Housing News), 2024 Disability Poverty in Canada Report Card (Health News), and 2024 BC Child Poverty Report Card (Childcare News). This is our 1st Roundup for 2025. This email is filled with information from our RPRC organization members and allies, local news, and all levels of government. If you have some news, just send it to info@richmondprc.org or hello@richmondprc.org and we will endeavour to spread the word among our members and associates.
Member News
->Anti-Semitism Dialogue January 26th (Thanks to RMCS and Kehila Society)
RPRC members Richmond Multicultural Community Service (RMCS) and Kehila Society are jointly presenting an anti-Semitism dialogue at the City Centre Community Centre on Sunday, Jan. 26.
Open to all faiths, backgrounds and ages, participate in brainstorming what the community can do to address the issue and build intercultural relations. Help us build a stronger Richmond for all! Scan the QR code below or email alan.hill@rmcs.bc.ca for more information.
->Second Call & return to regular distribution: Richmond Food Bank holiday schedule for late December 2024 to early January 2025 (Thanks to RFBS)
Please check the RFBS website for the full schedule and the most information!
Below is the schedule and some key dates:
->Richmond United Football Club is excited to once again offer the Coho Soccer Program (Thanks to Tania Webster)
The Coho Soccer Program is RUFC’s partnership program with the Richmond Food Bank to offer free soccer programming to Richmond families who are experiencing financial difficulties. The Program is made possible thanks to the generous support of RUFC Community Sponsor, Coho Collective Kitchens.
The Program is for girls and boys born 2020 to 2013.
When & Where:
- Sundays, January to March 2025 12pm-1pm:
- January 26
- February 2, 9, 23
- March 2, 9, 16
- Boyd Soccer Complex (Francis Road & #1 Road) @ Boyd White Field
What: 1 hour of soccer each Sunday led by RUFC staff coaches followed by a hot meal provided by Coho Collective Kitchens. The program will be based on a soccer festival format. There will be warm-up drills and small-sided games. All participants will receive a jersey. Participants are required to wear running shoes (no boots, sandals, slippers, etc…) and dress appropriately for the weather. Soccer is rain or shine.
In addition, all participants are eligible to participate, at no cost, in one (1) Spring Break Soccer Camp. Participants who are new to RUFC are also eligible for free registration in the 2025 Spring Open Development soccer program (April to June).
Who: The RUFC Coho Soccer Program is to support Richmond parents who are experiencing financial difficulties that impact their ability to provide physical activity/participation in sport for their children. We work on the honour system, without an income or means test, however space is limited in the program.
If you have questions about your child’s eligibility for the program, please contact taniaw@rufc.ca. All inquiries are confidential.
To register go the following link: https://forms.gle/uTQf4KjToWquEHPh6
-> Sports & Running Club (Thanks to RCD)
- The club meets every Tuesday from 4:30pm-6pm. Our activities are held at William Cook Elementary School.
- It is free and open to new and existing participants who would like to join us for sports and marathon training.
- Group training activities include playing basketball and soccer together; as well guest speaker presentation on winter exercises and wellness.
- New Term starts from Jan. 7, 2025 – Apr 29, 2025.
- You can contact Sam (604-232-2404) to sign up for the club.
- We are actively recruiting members for the RCD team to participate in the BMO marathon on May 4, 2025.
->BIPOC Inclusion and Capacity Building Anti-Racism Series (Thanks to Alan Hill and RMCS)
Do you live in Richmond? Please complete this survey to help us make Richmond a stronger and safer community for all!
- Main Survey page: https://www.iamrichmond.ca/1039-2/
- Traditional Chinese Survey (繁體中文): https://su.vc/jvellshp
- Simplified Chinese Survey (簡體中文): https://su.vc/uighystn
- Japanese survey (日本語): https://su.vc/yvhctvco
- Tagalog survey: https://su.vc/sxrsytxa
- Ukrainian survey (українська): https://su.vc/efplcrrj
- Punjabi survey (ਪੰਜਾਬੀ): https://su.vc/jkljcxzu
- Arabic survey (عربي): https://su.vc/ihqcwntr
->Community Garden Renewals – Jan 6 – 31 (Thanks to Urban Bounty)
The Community Gardens renewal period is from January 6th – 31st. You should have received an email with the link to pay for your annual membership fee on January 6, 2025. Keep an eye out!
Housing News
->How to Build More Homes Quicker (Thanks to The Tyee & The Conversation)
Canada aims to fund new methods of construction. Good, but it’s only part of the puzzle. Read about how Canada can address the housing crisis.
->Over 1,500 illegal short-term rental listings in B.C. targeted as registry gets set to launch (Thanks to Vancouver Sun)
The Ministry of Housing says the vast majority of illegal listings have come to their attention through public complaints. More about the short term rental registry here.
->Home sales rise in Richmond in December (Thanks to Richmond News)
Richmond benchmark prices for single-family homes are the fifth highest in Metro Vancouver. Full story.
->Richmond Centre redevelopment second phase includes 1,300+ homes (Thanks to Richmond News)
Residents are expected to move into the first towers shortly. More about the redevelopment here.
->Woman evicted from parents’ co-op in Delta will get human rights tribunal hearing (Thanks to Vancouver Sun)
A woman who was told to move out of her father’s co-op after his death will get a chance to make her argument before the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal. Full story.
->Building Homes Together: Homelessness Prevention With Indigenous Women (Thanks to Homeless Hub)
Alternative Builds is an ongoing culturally based project that is empowering Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and gender-diverse people to design and build housing on their terms. Read more here.
Food Security News
->The Canadian Food Inspection agency’s reliance on third-party audits is a risk to food safety, experts say (Thanks to Richmond News)
Those audits, paid for by the companies being audited, have come under fire for their lack of independence. Full story.
->Food Security Resources
No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Programs
This document highlights a range of community resources available to individuals and families living in Richmond who are experiencing food insecurity. Services include take-out and sit-down meals, as well as food hampers with delivery and pick-up options available. The No or Low Cost Community Meals and Food Program is regularly updated to have the most current information available.
Health News
->2024 Disability Poverty in Canada Report Card (Thanks to DWP)
This second annual Disability Poverty Report Card tracks the progress, or lack of progress, towards ending poverty for people with disabilities in Canada. Read the full report.
->Flu and RSV numbers climbing in B.C., BCCDC data shows (Thanks to CBC)
Respiratory illnesses have steadily increased since November but COVID numbers have dropped, figures show. See the article.
->People on autism spectrum offered chance to play lacrosse in Richmond (Thanks to Richmond News)
Adaptive lacrosse program broadens opportunities to join the sport. Learn more about the program.
->Safe Consumption Resources
People who use drugs are urged to take advantage of available supports to keep themselves safe. Please do not use drugs alone. Sign up for Toxic Drug and Health Alerts by texting the word JOIN to 253787 (ALERTS).
Remember to access local safe consumption or overdose prevention sites, get your drugs checked, use the Lifeguard app and carry naloxone.
Download the Lifeguard App: Launched in 2020, and designed to combat the toxic drug crisis and save lives, it functions as a valuable harm reduction tool, providing timely and potentially life-saving support to individuals at risk of opioid overdose.
For additional resources visit: https://towardtheheart.com
Income Security
->The Union Scores a Big Win in Starbucks Battle (Thanks to The Tyee)
The labour board rules workers in different locations can bargain toward one contract covering them all. Read more about the ongoing fight for collective bargaining.
Community Safety News
->(Third Call) Temporary winter shelters set up in Richmond ahead of severe weather (Thanks to Richmond News)
Cold weather prompts emergency shelters and services in Richmond. Learn more about the temporary winter shelters in Richmond: https://tinyurl.com/53rwu7f7
Please visit BC 211 Shelter Lists for the most updated shelter information.
->Road salt is killing Metro Vancouver salmon eggs, study finds (Thanks to Richmond News)
The substance we use to keep our roads safe in winter is lethal for freshly fertilized salmon eggs, according to research conducted by a team of West Coast scientists. Learn more here.
->‘Fire Weather’ Is Hitting the North the Hardest, Study Says (Thanks to The Tyee)
In the worst region, bordering BC and the Yukon, extreme conditions increased by 1.8 days every year over two decades. Read more about the study and possible protective strategies.
->Community Safety Resource:
Racist Incident Helpline 1-833-457-5463 (1-833-HLP-LINE) offers trauma-informed support to people who have experienced or witnessed an act of racism in British Columbia. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm (PT), in over 240 languages. Visit: racistincidenthelpline.ca.
Our goal is to ensure that those who need and want help can easily
access safe support. Wherever they are.
Childcare News
->Poor but tough: How single mothers in B.C. are fighting for economic stability (Thanks to Vancouver Sun)
Single mothers are disproportionately poor, but a Vancouver group has federal funding to try to change that outcome. Three mothers share their stories. Read the the story here.
->2024 BC Child Poverty Report Card (Thanks to First Call BC)
1 out of 6 BC children — 147,570 children and youth — lived in poverty, according to the annual report. Read the full report here.
->Third Call: Support the expansion of $10aDay child care Ten Days of Action started on November 20th
Petition for $10aDay Child Care for all
Join thousands of others calling for expanding access to $10aDay Child Care and supporting the child care workforce.
Sign the petition: https://tinyurl.com/56rumh8p