First United Storage Facility

First United Church Community Ministry Society has been making hope possible in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside since 1925. Located at Hastings and Gore, our doors are open to everyone - we meet people 'where they are at' and support the holistic health of this vibrant community.

We offer a full spectrum of programs designed to meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness and extreme poverty. These programs include shelter, meals, footcare, emergency clothing, advocacy, dentistry, music groups and more. We are celebrated in the community for being a true community hub that makes real impacts.

One of our most unique programs is our Storage Facility, where we offer 200 units of storage for people living on the streets or in substandard housing. It is the only program of its kind in Vancouver and is available seven days a week, both morning and evening, allowing people to easily access their belongings. 

Imagine having to carry all of your belongings with you at all times. You would be unable to go to a doctor's appointment, a job interview, fill out a housing application, or even use a restroom without risking the loss of all your possessions. That is the reality for people living on the streets. 

For people who are homeless, our storage facility is often the first step off the streets. Having a secure place to keep their belongings gives folks the ability to access services, address their health concerns, seek apartments, and go to work. It is a low cost and truly transformative service for people in need in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.

What We Need

 It costs about a dollar a day to operate each of our 200 Storage Units. The bulk of the operating costs go towards paying decent wages to adults from the Downtown Eastside, who otherwise face immense barriers to employment. The rest of our costs are wrapped up in paying the heat bill, pest control and maintaining the storage bins. 

We are seeking $6000 to fund the operation of the Storage Facility. That covers a month's operations; it's just a start, but it will give us a strong foundation as we secure partnerships to make the program sustainable long term.

If we raise less than our goal, it will be put towards our operating costs and we will seek other ways to make up the difference. If we raise more, we will put it towards the long term operating costs, introducing some energy efficiency upgrades and start replacing our most worn out storage bins. 

If you would like a tax a receipt for your donations, please donate through Canada Helps or by contacting the First United directly at 604-681-8365 (ask for Heather or Natalie). Any donations made on the Indiegogo page will not receive a tax receipt. Feel free to call the church with any questions!

Other Ways You Can Help

We understand that joining us as a funder isn't possible for all everyone. You can still make a huge impact by telling your friends and family about the campaign, asking for a pledge in lieu of holiday gifts, and by sharing the campaign online.

Thank you all, so very much, for your support of First United, our Storage Facility, and our amazing, vibrant Downtown Eastside community members.