FOR IMMEDATE RELEASE
AUGUST 18, 2010

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Sets Up Trust Account to Collect Funds for Richmond Fire Victims

Vancouver, B.C. – Tung Chan, CEO of S.U.C.C.E.S.S., announced today at a press conference that S.U.C.C.E.S.S. has set up a bank account in trust for victims of the fire that broke out in Heather Lee apartment located at 8540 Westminster Hwy, Richmond, on August 7, 2010.

The bank account set up by S.U.C.C.E.S.S. in the name "S.U.C.C.E.S.S. In Trust of Richmond Fire Victims 2010" is to collect funds from the public to be turned over to the fire victims for purchase of food, clothing, furniture and other living essentials.

The majority of the tenants are low-income and new immigrants facing language, cultural and socioeconomic barriers, particularly at such the time of crisis.

At the press conference, Sunny Yuen, spokesperson of Heather Lee building residents, urged the public to give support.

Like all tenants, Sunny is feeling insecure and uncertain of the future. "I don’t know how to rebuild my home with no money and so few resources," said Sunny. "I am still processing my emotions, wondering how to get back on my feet and hoping to retrieve my belongings."

"There was a video about my mother, who died in 1999. I wish I could get it back, along with my family photos,” added Sunny.

According to Sunny, some residents are living with friends temporarily, moving from one place to another. One is still sleeping in the car trunk.

Out of 36 units in the apartment, only 1 reportedly carried home insurance. 

"Our job at S.U.C.C.E.S.S. is to make sure the needs of victims are recognized," said Tung. "We are providing what we can to help while encouraging the community to step forward."

The in-trust account number is 44-5223931. Donations can be made at any TD Canada Trust branch.

In addition, S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Richmond office, located at 220 - 7000 Minoru Blvd, is accepting donation items on behalf of the victims. Please call at 604 - 279 - 7180 for more information.