Dear Editor,

Firstly, let me say I appreciate the efforts of Ms. Maclean with her aid to the residents of the Downtown East Side in Vancouver [Local group feeding hungry, Jan. 26, Langley Advance].

Her story caught my interest, so I did a bit of research on Downtown Eastside (DTE) regarding how many agencies offer services in that area. According to the website www.dtes.ca, there are 177 associations doing so.

Although now retired, when I was working I spent a lot of time in that part of Vancouver as an emergency service provider. I understand the people, the situation, and the area quite well.

What I don't understand is why Ms. Maclean's group considers the needs of DTE as being greater than those in similar situations in the Langleys. Make no mistake that we, too, have many folks with the same backgrounds and requiring the same help right here in our own backyard. For many diverse reasons, those numbers are ever-increasing, regardless of where we live.

Yes, of course, I contribute to programs and support different causes through volunteer work that supports people in many local cities. I do believe we should all do what we can to help. It is not my intention to criticise anyone who takes time out of their day to assist others.

However, with the DTES apparently having a surplus of programs, I would prefer to see our residents assisting those closer to home, when possible.

If indeed, Ms. Maclean's group does supply for those in need here in Langley, then that, I believe, should have been part of the story.

I offer support to Ms. Maclean and those who make her program a reality.

Rob Jones-Cook, Langley