Richmond student collects blankets for the homeless

Winter might be a little warmer for many in Metro Vancouver’s homeless community this year thanks to two 14-year-old students.

While many students are enjoying their winter break hanging out with friends or playing computer games, friends Yoshier Hu and Sarah Lin have been busy handing out posters at Richmond-Brighouse Station (and other SkyTrain stations), hoping to collect new or gently used clothing and blankets for people who are homeless.

Hu, a Grade 9 student from Hugh McRoberts secondary, said she decided to launch this project after reading an article online about a Toronto woman handing out packages to the homeless on Christmas Day. 

“Her kind gesture evokes a lot of feelings and appreciation from others. We decided to do something similar inspired by her motivation,” said Hu. “So we made some flyers and gave them away at different SkyTrain stations. Soon we had some people showing interest in our project.”

Lin, a former Richmond secondary school student, said she had seen some documentaries about how difficult it is for people who have no place to stay during the holiday season. Some homeless people might find a bed at a shelter, but many others scramble to keep warm while staying outdoors. 

“We are fortunate enough to be sheltered in a cozy and comfortable home. Residents could perhaps make a small change for some unsheltered residents of our community,” said Lin. 

The pair are asking people who have unwanted or unused blankets, clothing, gloves or socks to donate them to the collection box outside of 5600 Stefanko Place in Richmond any day before Dec. 31, 2019. Then, Hu and Lin will take the items, with the help of their parents, to Vancouver’s downtown eastside to hand them out on Jan. 1.

“We hope the unsheltered can start their new year with care and kindness. We also want to make the drive an annual event,” said Hu. 

Meanwhile, Hu and Lin will be collecting items on Dec. 29 at Marine Drive SkyTrain Station from 2-5 p.m. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Hu at y.xuan.yh@gmail.com.