The Vancouver Second Mile Society (VSMS) is a non-profit and charity established in 1958 by Dr. Wallace Wilson, a prominent retired Vancouver physician.
VSMS was created in response to concerns expressed by the City of Vancouver’s building inspectors. The City’s planning department redevelopment plans for the "East End" did not include a community centre, and the Carnegie Library at Main and Hastings was being closed due to structural problems. This was problematic since the library was where many seniors in the Downtown Eastside hotels and rooming houses could rest and read safely and warmly.
Dr Wilson recruited a small group of concerned citizens and formed a group to solicit support for this newly formed society, and thus, VSMS was born. Over the next decades, VSMS has established two seniors centres and three Neighbourhood Helpers Programs. Throughout its 60+ year legacy, VSMS has remained focused on the well-being of seniors living in the community. Nowadays, nearly 2,000 participate in VSMS’ programs on an annual basis and over 250 hot meals, 250 snacks and 500 cups of coffee/tea are being served weekly. With your support, we strengthen communities by helping low-incomes seniors live healthy and fulfilling lives.