The Lotus Light Charity Society (LLCS) held its second annual Lotus Light Community Caring Day event at Oppenheimer Park on Saturday, July 7, 2018. The event was initiated to celebrate the community spirit in the heart of the Downtown Eastside Oppenheimer neighbourhood.
The event brought those struggling with poverty, homelessness, and addiction together to celebrate and enjoy a summer BBQ picnic, family-focused activities, and gifts. Over 1000 meals with hot dogs, fresh fruit, cookies, soy milk, and bottled water were served at the Park, allowing impoverished families and other vulnerable/at-risk residents to partake in summer activities. Over 10,000 gift items, including coverlets, throws and blankets, t-shirts, hats, and small toys, were distributed to attendees.
The event also celebrated the Vancouver LLCS’s 25th anniversary of serving the Downtown Eastside (DTES) community. Some VIP attendees included Master Lian Tzi (Chair of the LLCS Board), Ms. Jenny Kwan (MP for E. Vancouver), Mr. George Chow (MLA for Vancouver-Fraserview), Deputy Mayor Tim Stevenson, Mr. Hector Bremner (City Councillor), Dr. Floyd Wong (President of the LLCS), Ms. Sarah Kirby-Yung and Mr. Michael Wiebe (Park Board Commissioners), Ms. Teresa Fung (Executive Director for the LLCS), Mr. Aart Shuurman Hess (CEO of the Greater Vancouver Food Bank), and Ms. Cynthia Kinsella (Chief Development Officer of the Food Bank).
At the event, the LLCS also presented Mr. Aart Schuurman Hess, CEO of the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, a donation of 10,000 lbs of rice. Six students were also awarded the Annual Lotus Light Charity Scholarship which recognizes students who have achieved both academic excellence and excellent community service.
Master Lian Tzi spoke to reporters of TBN Weekly about the event. “I am so proud to see our elected officials, local businesses, and LLCS volunteers come together to make this event a success. Thousands of people in the Downtown Eastside are able to enjoy a break from their worries and have a fun day. Beyond just a one-day event, Lotus Light Charity Society (Vancouver) is proudly celebrating 25 years of serving the DTES community this year. Providing food and care packages containing gifts of clothing, blankets, and other essential items are a critical element to our outreach efforts and community service programs.”
The LLCS would like to thank all the volunteers, corporate and individual sponsors, and partner community-service organizations that made this event possible! The LLCS is proud to serve the most vulnerable members in need and will continue to make an impact in the DTES community for many more years to come.
