Burnaby Neighbourhood House asks for donations after devastating flood

Burnaby Neighbourhood House (BNH) is asking for the public’s help in recovering from a flood that devastated its South Burnaby location over the holidays.

BNH is a community-run agency that operates programs for low-income Burnaby residents, newcomers, seniors, and others who need resources in the city.

It hosts sessions for important skills like basic cooking and digital literacy, to social programs like its Mahjong Club and seniors’ bingo.

CEO Antonia Beck says the entire first floor of BNH’s South House flooded on Dec. 23 after a water pipe burst in the ceiling, affecting the Welcoming Place, the reception, and a large section of office space.

“The flooded space was our front-end hub where our community members could drop-in for help and support, be welcomed to the community and make connections that created a sense of belonging,” BNH wrote in an email.

“This past year alone—over 11,000 people either came in-person or called over the phone looking for help, resources and referrals.”

BNH has had to shut down the Welcoming Place entirely while the damage is being repaired. The reception and volunteers, meanwhile, have been moved up to the third floor, and the 12 staff members whose workstations were damaged have been sent to other locations in Burnaby.

The big problem BNH is facing now, however, is one of finances.

“Although we have insurance, we have learned that the deductible is $10,000! So we are appealing to the community to help us restore this vital place for connections and belonging,” Beck said.

BNH has started a fundraiser on GoFundMe in an attempt to cover the cost of that deductible.

“Every little bit counts in our efforts to bring back the place where the community connects, engages, and belongs,” the organization said.