We believe in community!
An Update from the New West Neighbourhood House
July 28, 2026
We are providing an update to the community to share that we have dispersed the donated funds and gift cards to almost all of the residents from both Pinecrest and Hill Croft.
In order to plan how to disperse the funds, we reached out to the Red Cross to understand best practices. They were extremely helpful and very supportive of our plans.
We organized a committee of six representatives from local non-profits that have been interacting with the impacted residents. The committee discussed a number of options and agreed on an approach. Our guiding principles for disbursements were to be efficient, timely, transparent, and easily understood.
Based on the information we received from New Westminster Fire Services and insurance companies, we decided to provide funds to all of the residents of Pinecrest Manor and to residents living on the first floor of Hill Croft Apartments who experienced extreme flooding that destroyed their apartments and belongings. As well, all residents (Pinecrest and Hill Croft – all floors) received a collection of gift cards.
We received approximately $115,000 in monetary donations and $27,000 in gift cards.
We are continuing to receive donations (e-transfers, cheques, and gift cards), and we will disburse these funds in the next few weeks.
Again, we want to pass on the immense appreciation from all of the impacted residents. They were grateful to receive such an outpouring of support and care from the community.
And thank you from the New West Neighbourhood House for your understanding, patience, and support for our efforts.
What is a Neighbourhood House?
A neighbourhood house is a community-based organization that provides a welcoming space for local residents to gather, learn, and connect. It offers a variety of programs and services, such as educational workshops, recreational activities, social support, and cultural events, tailored to the needs of the community. Neighbourhood houses often focus on inclusivity, fostering a sense of belonging and community engagement, and are typically open to people of all ages and backgrounds. They serve as hubs for social interaction, skill development, and community building.
The need for a neighbourhood house in New Westminster has been identified by several community organizations and residents throughout the City. As New Westminster continues to grow and welcome unprecedented numbers of community members, including many families, we know that the city would benefit from a neighbourhood house model to support the gaps in current programs and services.
If you are interested in joining us please see the “About Us” page. We are looking for Board Circle Members, but also other volunteers to support our development.
Our Values
Joy & Fun – We understand the importance of fostering a sense of joy, fun, and celebration within our community.
Disability Justice – We firmly believe in the inherent worth of every individual and are dedicated to ensuring that no body or mind is left behind.
Anti-Racism, Decolonization, and Reconciliation – Our organization takes a proactive stance against all forms of racism, particularly anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism.
Anti-Oppression – Creating an inclusive space that centres the voices of those marginalized by systems of oppression is paramount to our mission.
Accountability – Acknowledging our mistakes and prioritizing the needs of those who have been harmed are integral to our growth as an organization and as individuals.