Volunteers delivered 150 care packages to Richmond seniors earlier this week in hopes of spreading warmth and holiday cheer.
On Feb. 16, volunteers from the Chinese Community Response Network held a Lunar New Year celebration event at the Austin Harris Residence and delivered packages containing daily necessities and food to isolated seniors living in low-income retirement communities and care homes.
Friday marked the seventh day of the lunar calendar, which is known as People's Day or the birthday of all human beings in Chinese New Year celebrations.
The Chinese New Year volunteering initiative is held annually by the Chinese Community Response Network, but this year is the first time the non-profit has expanded outside of Vancouver.
The care packages also contained information to help connect seniors to community resources and are part of an initiative to prevent senior abuse.
During the launch ceremony, Daisy Au, Chinese Community Response Network coordinator, said more seniors are being financially exploited by those around them.
Attendees also heard from Sharon Johnson, British Columbia Community Response Network representative, who said "more and more seniors are living in poverty under the pressure of inflation," and require timely care and assistance.
The initiative was supported by local organizations Mosaic, Success, Chimo and Immigrant Services Society of BC.
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