The
Vancouver Second Mile Society (VSMS) is a non-profit and charity
established in 1958 by Dr. Wallace Wilson, a prominent retired Vancouver
physician.
VSMS was created in response to concerns expressed by the City of Vancouver’s building inspectors. The City’s planning department redevelopment plans for the "East End" did not include a community centre, and the Carnegie Library at Main and Hastings was being closed due to structural problems. This was problematic since the library was where many seniors in the Downtown Eastside hotels and rooming houses could rest and read safely and warmly.
Dr
Wilson recruited a small group of concerned citizens and formed a group
to solicit support for this newly formed society, and thus, VSMS was
born. Over the next decades, VSMS has established two seniors centres
and three Neighbourhood Helpers Programs. Throughout its 60+ year
legacy, VSMS has remained focused on the well-being of seniors living in
the community. Nowadays, nearly 2,000 participate in VSMS’ programs on
an annual basis and over 250 hot meals, 250 snacks and 500 cups of
coffee/tea are being served weekly. With your support, we strengthen
communities by helping low-incomes seniors live healthy and fulfilling
lives.