What I learned about generosity from the DTES
Date 6 Apr, 2026
Message from Amanda Burrows, Executive Director, on Easter Monday
At Easter, we’re reminded of powerful acts of love and generosity.
At FIRST UNITED, I see those moments often in the Downtown Eastside. They don’t always make headlines, but they speak deeply to the humanity and generosity that live in this community.
I want to share a story about a time where I was out with staff on the streets, assisting a man who was barefoot.
As we were helping him, another man from the community walked by. He saw what was happening, bent over, took the shoes off his own feet and placed them beside the man we were helping.
When I tried to reassure him that he could keep his own shoes, he looked at me matter-of-factly and said, “He needs them more.”
To witness this act of generosity was so powerful.
This story illustrates my message for you today: never underestimate the power of your generosity.
While this man did not have much, he gave what he could. And it made an impact.
That’s why I love sharing stories like this one. While the DTES has well-documented struggles of deep, historical and personal trauma, it also has strengths and beauty that should be celebrated, like its resilience, care and generosity.
This story is a good reminder that generosity already lives here in the DTES.
When you show up with generosity for our neighbours, whether it’s generosity with gifts, your time, advocacy, prayers or presence, you help strengthen the generosity and goodness that is already here.
Even if you think you aren’t giving as much as another person, what you give is deeply appreciated and it does make a difference. Especially when we come together.
It’s the generosity of our FIRST UNITED community that has helped us get to where we are today.
We’re counting down the days until we’ve moved into and are operating out of our new building. Very soon, our neighbours will be able to experience dignity, belonging and justice in this building through new and expanded programs and services.
The generosity of the community means we’ll be able to open our doors to more folks who need support.
That’s why I’m so excited about the possibilities and how your generosity helps bring us closer to our vision of a neighbourhood where everyone’s worth is celebrated and all people thrive.
A place that community can call their own. Where they can access our services, socialize and relax.
It’s so much better together. That’s how we get things done. Never underestimate the power of what you contribute.
Happy Easter,
Amanda Burrows, Executive Director
FIRST UNITED