S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Chinese Help Lines

PRESS RELEASE - February 15, 2007

Chinese Help Lines Mandarin: 604-270-8222 Cantonese: 604-270-8233

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Chinese Help Lines has been operating in Vancouver for more than 4 years.  Hours of operation are from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., seven days a week.

There are approximately fifty trained volunteers who provide emotional support and information referrals in both Mandarin and Cantonese to thousands of Chinese Canadians each year.  Volunteers are from China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.  They receive 40 hours of professional help line training before taking calls.

One third of the funding comes from S.U.C.C.E.S.S. while the remainder comes from Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, Kirin Restaurant Group and donations from individuals and businesses. 

Mr. Tung Chan, CEO of S.U.C.C.E.S.S., reported that out of the calls received last year, separation & divorce were the leading issues faced by the Chinese immigrant community.  There were 604 calls related to separation & divorce which accounted for 19% of total calls in 2006.  Out of those, the number of female callers was substantially higher than male callers.

Dr. Tom Yuan, registered psychologist, pointed out five factors which undermine marital relationships in immigrant families: discord between in-laws, cultural gap, sexual relationship, children's education, and finances.  Dr. Yuen spoke about how the cultural gap & adaptation process have impacted marriage and family relationships for Chinese immigrants.

At the press conference, two volunteers shared their personal stories about working at S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Chinese Help Lines.  Both stated that helping other Chinese immigrants was a very rewarding experience for them. 

At the same time, Mr. Chan invited those who are interested in serving the Chinese community to join S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Chinese Help Lines.  Mr. Chan offered his sincere thanks to funders who have continuously supported this valuable service.

Interested individuals may contact Chinese Help Line Coordinators for volunteer opportunity: Johnson Ma or Casey Lam, at 604-270-8611.

Pre-Event Release
 Agenda   Invitation   List of services

Media clipping:
 The Province
 Vancouver Sun
 Vancouver Courier

Event Photo:
Photo Album