The Association of South Asian Professionals of British Columbia (ASAP), working with Friendship Providers in Action, held a Hotdog Day for the Homeless event on Saturday, June 22nd, 2013 at Oppenheimer Park in East Vancouver.

It was a cloudy day as the line was formed as far as the end of the block awaiting the food distribution to begin. Coffee was kindly donated by Mandeep Kandola, owner/operator of Tim Horton’s locations at Commercial Drive, Terminal Avenue and West Pender. A dozen ASAP members served up hotdogs, cookies and coffee to the less fortunate. By raising awareness, ASAP hopes others will join in to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the approximately 2,300 homeless people in Vancouver. This was the fifth time ASAP organized such an event, now having served 5,000 hotdogs, treats, and coffee to the homeless.

“It is clear when you spend time in the downtown eastside that the issue of homelessness is closely connected with the lack of adequate care for those suffering from mental illness. Until this underlying illness is treated, we will continue to have a very serious homelessness problem in British Columbia. There are several reports suggesting that the number of people that will be homeless could triple in the Lower Mainland in the next few years. This needs to be addressed now before it gets any worse and we encourage everyone to contact their political representatives to raise this issue. ASAP and its members are doing their part by getting involved, giving back to the community and raising awareness We encourage and challenge others to join us to help resolve the plight of the mentally ill and the homeless.” states Mr. Jindy Bhalla, President of ASAP.

ASAP strives to recruit individuals who are looking to make a difference. For those who join the team of professionals in volunteering; here are a few ways ASAP makes a difference: