In Tagalog, kapwa represents the interconnectedness of the community. The term reflects shared identity, empathy, and care and understanding for other people.
United Way BC and Filipino BC have embraced this spirit by launching BC’s Kapwa Strong Fund, making it easy for people of all backgrounds to support those affected by the Lapu-Lapu Day attack on April 26. The organization states that 100 percent of all donations to the fund will provide immediate assistance, counselling and trauma services, and other critical supports.
“We remain committed to supporting our neighbours and friends beyond the immediate needs; grief and healing take time and United Way BC will walk with Vancouver’s Filipino community for the days, weeks, and months to come,” the United Way states on its website.
It emphasizes that every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. The United Way also offers donors an opportunity to designate funds directly to Filipino BC, which co-organized the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party.
In addition, the United Way says that it is taking applications for grants under BC’s Kapwa Strong Fund. For more information, go to https://uwbc.ca/lapu/.
Eleven people died and more than two dozen others were injured when a motorist drove a black SUV at a high speed through an area along East 43rd Avenue filled with festivalgoers. The attack occurred at 8:14 p.m. just after the final musical performance on the grounds of John Oliver Secondary School.
People at the festival kept the driver in custody until police arrived and took him away.
The United Way BC’s Kapwa Strong Fund provides immediate assistance, counselling, trauma services, and other critical supports. The United Way BC website allows contributors to designate funds directly to Filipino BC. Donors receive a tax credit. The Toronto Spark is on Bluesky @torontospark.bsky.social.
