Meet Ed
This Valentine’s Day, we’re reminded that love isn’t always flowers or chocolates.
Sometimes, love looks like a warm meal, prioritizing your mental health, and the dignity of someone remembering your name.
25 years ago, Ed felt invisible on the busy streets of Vancouver. He walked into The Kettle Drop-In Centre looking for something to eat and hoping that someone would notice him.
He ate his fill and left, but the glow of the warm welcome and friendly staff he met there stayed with him. He felt seen.
Years later, Ed was exhausted from trying to self-medicate with substances. And he knew he needed to stop before he ended up on the streets again. He knew where he could go for non-judgemental support: The Kettle.
He arrived at The Kettle’s Mental Health Drop-In hopeful that the team could help him. He was ready to walk the long journey to recovery. In the end, he found more than he bargained for.
Kettle staff connected Ed with mental health support and eventually with housing. He was able to move out of the Downtown Eastside SRO he had been living in, and into long-term stable housing with The Kettle.
On the foundation of a safe and stable home, Ed stopped using drugs — something he believes changed the course of his life.
“I probably would be back down on skid [row] or dead...most likely because I would have gone back to drugs, because I wouldn't have had the help.”
Ed also joined a gardening group, did art therapy and went camping with his friends from The Kettle.
Then, on one fateful camping trip, he was introduced to Kim – the woman who would become his wife.
Today, 10 years in, their relationship has deepened into a strong, resilient love. Ed and Kim share a home, enjoy every moment together and stay connected with the community that helped them thrive.
This story of hope is proof that a hot meal, self-love and the courage to ask for help can truly transform a life. Ed didn’t just find a roof: he found a community, a caring support team, and a life rooted in the simple joy of being seen and loved.
Feeling inspired? If Ed’s journey of recovery has touched your heart, subscribe to hear more stories of resilience and ways to help our Metro Vancouver neighbours. Thank you for helping us lift the weight of feeling invisible for people like Ed this Valentine’s Day!