UPDATE: Vancouver City Councillor Pete Fry has just announced an urgent motion to pressure Canada Post to reopen the Chinatown post office, a critical resource for the community. The motion was introduced during a council meeting on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, as residents continue to voice their frustrations over the post office’s closure.
The closure of the Main Street post office in November 2022, part of Canada Post’s cost-cutting measures, has significantly impacted local residents, particularly seniors and those with disabilities. Fry emphasized the dire situation, stating, “Residents of Chinatown in the Downtown Eastside, older people, people with disabilities, people who might not have the means to travel several kilometres to pick up their mail.”
In a bid to rectify this issue, Fry’s motion calls on Mayor Ken Sim to formally request federal officials to consider reopening the post office, proposing city-owned spaces as potential locations. “We have properties in Chinatown that are owned by the City of Vancouver that we’re actively looking to redevelop,” Fry noted. This initiative aims to provide a vital service to residents who depend on mail, particularly those who may not utilize electronic banking or have internet access.
The councillor highlighted the cultural relevance of the post office for seniors, many of whom face language barriers and rely on traditional mail services. “It’s nice to have that kind of facility available,” Fry stated, expressing his commitment to ensuring that the community’s needs are met.
The matter is set to be debated by the Vancouver City Council on Wednesday, November 1, 2023. Community leaders and residents are urged to follow these developments closely, as the outcome could significantly affect the livelihood of many in Chinatown.
This situation underscores the importance of accessible community services and the ongoing need for advocacy in urban areas. As discussions progress, residents are hopeful that their voices will lead to the reinstatement of this essential service.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops, and join the conversation about the future of Chinatown’s post office.
