VANCOUVER—This afternoon’s “Party at Pathways,” with community members and local politicians in support of Pathways Information Centre, has turned into a wake. Pathways had secured limited funding from alternative sources, was considering how to maintain services, and was hoping to celebrate this achievement. Instead, Pathways will be closing its doors at day’s end.
Sadly, the Tradeworks Training Society has been unsuccessful in convincing the Provincial Government to continue funding critical social services available at Main & Hastings. Without that support, this trusted and highly effective centre will no longer have the option to continue serving the public as of March 30th.
During the month of April, staff has been instructed by the Ministry to offer no services and refer “clients” to the new contract holders: the Open Door Group. Staff is concerned about former patrons’ reactions to being denied service on the basis of race since Pathways shares space with two other programs, Aboriginal Connections to Employment and Bladerunners.
What: Celebration at Pathways Information Centre
Where: 390 Main Street, Vancouver
When: Friday March 30, 2012 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Friday’s event will be hosted by Ray Yee, a long-time employment counsellor/case manager at Pathways. Speakers will include members of the community, Pathways staff and politicians concerned about the withdrawal of employment services from the downtown eastside. Media are asked to sign in at the door. Space for camera positions is limited so will be assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis. Due to the location and other constraints, no audio feed is available.
For more information, a fact sheet is attached.
