First United Church Community Ministry Society

Overview

First United Church Community Ministry Society, commonly known as First United, is a Canadian nonprofit organization and registered charity (Business Registration Number: 826726135RR0001) committed to social justice, community support, and spiritual care in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside (DTES). Established in 1885 originally as a Presbyterian congregation, First United has evolved into a vital community ministry offering advocacy, housing, healing, and shelter services for people experiencing homelessness, poverty, and systemic marginalization[1][4][5].

History

The organization's roots trace back to the founding of a Presbyterian Church congregation in Granville (now part of Vancouver) in 1885. The congregation moved to 320 East Hastings Street, in the heart of the DTES, where it remains today. With the formation of the United Church of Canada, the congregation became First United Church. During the Great Depression, First United became a major support hub in Vancouver, serving food and assistance to thousands affected by poverty and hunger[1].

Mission and Vision

First United’s mission centers on seeking a just society by nurturing each person's spirit through ministry, housing, advocacy, and community service. It focuses on addressing the interrelated challenges of extreme poverty, mental illness, trauma, and systemic oppression faced by residents of the DTES. The vision is a neighborhood where everyone’s worth is celebrated and all people have opportunities to thrive[1][5].

Programs and Services

• Community Ministry and Spiritual Care: First United provides trauma-informed and culturally safe spiritual care, with a special emphasis on supporting Indigenous community members. Its ministry welcomes people of all faiths or none, affirming dignity and inclusion[5].
• Shelter and Housing: The organization operates emergency shelters and works to provide safe housing options for people experiencing homelessness in the DTES[4][5].
• Advocacy: First United advocates for social justice, compassionate policies, and systemic change to address poverty and marginalization.
• Healing and Support Services: Programs such as foot care (historically), community connection activities, and health support initiatives address immediate physical and emotional needs of community members[5].
• Community Engagement: The society encourages community involvement through volunteering, donations, and events aimed at building better futures for the DTES community[2].

Values and Acknowledgements

First United recognizes that it operates on the unceded ancestral lands of the Səl̓ílwətaʔ (Tsleil-Waututh), Xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) peoples. It acknowledges the intertwined histories of colonization, systemic racism, and the legacy of residential schools, taking responsibility as part of the United Church of Canada. The organization strives to learn from Indigenous leaders and Elders and to embody reconciliation in its work and relationships[1].

Governance

The leadership at First United includes a diverse team and Board of Directors responsible for the strategic vision and direction of the society, ensuring responsiveness to community needs and accountability in its operations[1].

Impact

With over 140 years of service, First United remains a pillar of support and sanctuary in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, providing essential services and advocating for the dignity and rights of one of Canada’s most marginalized communities. Its ongoing commitment to healing, housing, and justice continues to shape a more equitable urban environment[1][4][5].

Note: This article is based on publicly available information and aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the First United Church Community Ministry Society’s history, mission, and activities.