Lance “Hank” Evans’ story is one that has touched many hearts. An 87-year-old senior living in Richmond, British Columbia, found himself without a safe place to call home, spending his days at the local library and his nights sleeping at a Tim Hortons because he had nowhere else to go.

When we first learned about Lance’s situation, we were deeply moved by the reality that someone who has lived a full life could find themselves facing homelessness, uncertainty, and isolation. No senior should have to experience this alone.

His story is a powerful reminder that circumstances can change quickly, and that many seniors today are facing challenges that are difficult for others to see. Everyone deserves dignity, compassion, and the security of knowing they have somewhere safe to turn.

After learning about Lance, efforts began to find a way to connect with him and offer support. Through reaching out to local resources and searching for ways to help, we were eventually connected with Madonna Woo Mendoza.

From the moment we spoke, it was clear that Madonna has a genuine heart for helping others. Madonna spent two days searching for Mr. Evans, determined to find him and ensure he knew someone cared.

When Madonna finally met with Lance, she was able to spend meaningful time with him, listen to his story, and learn more about his life and circumstances. Their conversation helped build trust and gave Lance an opportunity to share more about what he has been experiencing and what support he needs moving forward.

What stood out most was not his hardship, but his character.

She described Mr. Evans as a kind, gentle, and deeply grateful man. In a moment that truly speaks to who he is, at the end of their visit, Mr. Evans prayed for her — not the other way around.

Even while facing homelessness and uncertainty, his concern remained for others. His kindness, humility, and faith were evident throughout their conversation. His story is a reminder that circumstances do not define a person’s worth, and that some of the most compassionate people can be found enduring the most difficult seasons of life.

Through continued efforts to support Lance, my sister Christina, who lives in Langley, has also become involved and will be meeting with Mr. Evans. Together, Christina, Madonna, Rachael, and I are working to ensure Lance has access to immediate support, basic necessities, and a path toward long-term stability.

We have connected with Lance’s support team and are working alongside community organizations, including the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, who are involved in helping coordinate support and ensure Lance receives the assistance and resources he needs.

We are currently gathering important information to better understand Mr. Evans’ needs and available resources. Madonna and those supporting Lance will continue working with him to help identify the best path forward.

Our immediate priority is securing safe accommodations for Mr. Evans while we work on a longer-term plan. I will be flying into Vancouver and traveling to Richmond to meet with him in person, better understand his situation firsthand, and help coordinate additional support services, housing options, and long-term solutions.

We are also working to provide Mr. Evans with a cell phone, email account, and access to technology so he can remain connected and access important housing, medical, financial, and government resources.

The goal of this fundraiser is to help provide:

• Safe temporary accommodations

• Long-term housing and stability

• Food, clothing, and basic necessities

• Transportation and communication services

• Assistance accessing senior support programs and benefits

• Medical, prescription, and health-related needs

• Emergency and unforeseen expenses as they arise

Every dollar raised will go directly toward supporting Lance and helping him regain the stability, comfort, and security that every senior deserves.

We will provide updates as we continue working with Mr. Evans and identifying the best path forward. Transparency and accountability are extremely important to us, and all funds raised will be used solely for Lance’s benefit.

After consulting with Lance’s support team, we have learned that providing funds directly to Lance could impact his eligibility for important income-tested senior benefits, including the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).

To protect his eligibility while ensuring he receives the support he needs, all donations from this fundraiser will be directed to the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul and administered on Lance’s behalf.

The funds will be used exclusively for Lance’s benefit, including housing, food, clothing, transportation, communication services, medical and health-related needs, and other expenses that contribute to his safety, stability, and well-being.

This arrangement allows Lance to receive assistance without jeopardizing the benefits he relies upon, while also providing appropriate oversight and accountability to ensure all funds are used responsibly and solely for his care.

Our goal remains to help Lance secure safe housing, access available resources, and restore the dignity, comfort, and security that every senior deserves.

If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing Lance’s story. Together, we can help ensure that an 87-year-old Canadian senior is treated with the compassion, respect, and care he deserves.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.

Kelsey Thacker

Christina Thacker

Madonna Woo Mendoza

Rachael Maslove

Society of Saint Vincent de Paul