Print Edition: May 22, 2013
The Fraser Valley Youth Society (FVYS) is gearing up for their first annual Pride event on May 25.
The afternoon will begin with a march from Matsqui Recreation Centre (MRC) to Civic Plaza at the corner of Trethewey and South Fraser Way, followed by a barbecue, community speeches and in the evening a film screening and panel discussion.
The FVYS is a small non-profit organization specializing in services for youth ages 13-25. They focus on community events, advocacy and connect LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer)-identifying youth with external community resources.
“The focus is on social determination of health,” FVYS coordinator, John Kuipers explained, “And then, looking at our target population, [identifying] what contributes to a healthy, pro-social, contributing, queer member of society, and how can living in the Fraser Valley not negate the fact that somebody can still engage in their community.”
Chatham Hope Haven homeless shelter has expanded its hours to serve as a 24-hour warming centre as night-time temperatures keep dipping to minus double digits.