UPDATE: Vancouver City Councillor Pete Fry has just introduced a motion urging Canada Post to reopen its Chinatown post office, a vital resource for the community. The motion was presented on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, amid growing concerns over the impact of the closure on residents.
The closure of the post office has significantly affected the Chinatown community, particularly older residents and those with disabilities. Fry emphasized that many people in the Downtown Eastside lack the means to travel several kilometres to access their mail. “This closure has been hard on residents—especially seniors,” Fry stated, highlighting the urgent need for accessible postal services.
Canada Post shut down the Main Street location in November 2023 as part of reported cost-saving measures. Fry criticized this decision, describing it as a business choice that overlooks the needs of the community. “There’s a lot of opportunity within Chinatown,” he argued, indicating that the city must advocate for its residents.
The motion also calls for Mayor Ken Sim to communicate with federal officials and explore the possibility of utilizing city-owned properties to establish 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 added.
Fry pointed out that many seniors in the area do not use electronic banking and often face language barriers, making physical access to mail services crucial. “It’s nice to have that kind of facility available,” he said, emphasizing the cultural significance of having a post office in the neighborhood.
The Vancouver City Council is set to debate Fry’s motion on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, making it a pivotal moment for the community. Residents are encouraged to voice their support as this situation develops. The outcome of this motion could reshape access to essential services for vulnerable populations in Chinatown.
As the discussion unfolds, it remains critical to watch how local officials respond to the urgent needs of the community. The reopening of the post office could alleviate hardships faced by many and restore a vital connection for residents in Chinatown.
