The past year has seen multiple fires at SROs, tent city violence, random attacks and the ongoing fentanyl\u002Dpoisoning crisis on Vancouver\u0027s Downtown Eastside. What, one might wonder, could anyone have to feel thankful for.
“First and foremost, I’m thankful we’re all still alive,” Vincenzo Milillo said, sweeping his hand to take in the room where Union Gospel Mission hosted its first sit-down Thanksgiving meal in three years.Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion delivered straight to your inbox at 7 a.m., Monday to Friday.By clicking on the sign up button you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.
Sandra Stewart enjoys Thanksgiving dinner at the Union Gospel Mission in Vancouver on Monday. Photo: Arlen RedekopSandra Stewart lost both parents recently and is living in transitional housing because she can’t afford rent.“I’m thankful because being here means so much, it really does. It’s been an emotional roller-coaster during COVID and this is such an uplifting experience, it’s awesome that we all get together and enjoy this.
For families and the lowest income earners, rising food costs mean the difference between being able to afford groceries and paying utility bills, or being able to buy their children winter clothing and being able to put food on the table, said Nicole Mucci of UGM.“But we know, unfortunately, some people are having to make that choice now and it’s impossible.”
Steve Bryden enjoys Thanksgiving dinner with new and old acquaintances at the Union Gospel Mission in Vancouver on Monday. Photo: Arlen Redekop
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