URGENT UPDATE: Vancouver City Councillor Pete Fry has just introduced a motion demanding that Canada Post reopen its Main Street post office, a vital resource for residents in Chinatown, which was closed in November 2023 as part of cost-saving measures. This decision has had a significant impact on the community, particularly affecting seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Fry expressed his concerns about the closure, stating, “Residents of Chinatown in the Downtown Eastside, older people, people with disabilities, people who might not have the means to travel several kilometers to pick up their mail.” The motion comes as the city grapples with the consequences of the post office’s shutdown, which has left many relying on mail for essential communications.
In a bid to restore this critical service, Fry’s motion calls on Mayor Ken Sim to reach out to federal officials and explore options for utilizing city-owned properties in Chinatown for a new post office location. “We have properties in Chinatown that are owned by the City of Vancouver that we’re actively looking to redevelop,” Fry emphasized.
This initiative is driven by a pressing need for accessibility, especially for seniors who may not be comfortable with electronic banking or lack internet access. Fry highlighted the cultural significance of the facility, noting that many seniors may face language barriers, making a local post office even more essential.
The Vancouver City Council is set to debate this urgent motion on Wednesday. As community members await the outcome, the reopening of the Chinatown post office could restore vital services and support for residents who depend on them.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the council deliberates on this important community issue.
