Originally from Powell River, Donna has called Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside home for the past 37 years. For just under 20 years, she has been a dedicated volunteer at the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre (DEWC), where she has generously shared her time, compassion, and lived experience. She has also volunteered with the Friendship Centre and the Mother Centre, always looking for ways to support her community.
A proud mother of two university graduates and grandmother, she has built a life rooted in resilience and kindness. She has worked in retail at Labour & Limited and has also worked at many shelters throughout Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Alongside her partner, Tom Fong, of 27 years, she continues to give back to the people who welcomed and supported her when she needed it most.
Although life has brought many challenges that have made trust difficult at times, she continues to move forward with courage. Her guiding mantra, “Baby steps,” reminds her that progress doesn’t have to be fast—it just has to keep moving forward.
Her story is one of perseverance, gratitude, and giving back. We are incredibly grateful for her years of dedication and the compassion she brings to our community every day.
We would like to thank DJ for sharing her story and for her ongoing commitment to supporting women and children in the Downtown Eastside through her work with DEWC.