URGENT UPDATE: Vancouver City Councillor Pete Fry has just introduced a motion to pressure Canada Post to reopen the vital Chinatown post office, a crucial resource for the local community. This motion, announced on Wednesday, aims to address the significant challenges faced by residents, particularly seniors and those with disabilities.
The closure of the Main Street post office in November has left many in the Chinatown and Downtown Eastside areas struggling to access essential postal services. “Residents, especially older people and those who can’t travel far, are suffering,” Fry stated. The impact of this closure is evident, as many rely on traditional mail services rather than electronic banking, which is often inaccessible due to language barriers and lack of internet access.
Fry emphasized that the closure was a decision made by Canada Post as part of cost-cutting measures. “They’re going through some new modeling of business decisions. It’s too late for that particular location, but there’s a lot of opportunities within Chinatown,” he asserted. He is now calling on Mayor Ken Sim to write to federal officials, proposing the use of city-owned properties in Chinatown for a new post office location.
“With city-owned properties that we’re actively looking to redevelop, we can create a resource that meets the community’s needs,” Fry added. His motion will be debated by the Vancouver City Council on Wednesday, highlighting the urgency of this matter for the community.
Local residents have expressed their frustrations, noting how the absence of the post office has disrupted their daily lives. Many seniors, who may not speak English as their first language, find it particularly challenging to navigate alternative postal solutions. Fry’s initiative aims to bring back not just a post office but also a sense of community support and accessibility.
As discussions continue, the outcome of this motion could significantly impact the lives of many in Chinatown. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and voice their support as the situation develops. This action reflects a growing movement to ensure all community members have equitable access to essential services.
Stay tuned for updates on this critical issue as it unfolds.
