While away on her only vacation this year, Aileen — our cofounder, friend, and tireless frontline worker — received the devastating news that a fire had broken out in her apartment building.

Her partner, Nik, was home at the time and miraculously managed to save their dog and cat before evacuating. Sadly, nothing else could be salvaged. The fire damaged the roof, and although their lower unit didn’t burn, it was completely flooded by the water used to put out the blaze. The ceiling eventually collapsed, destroying everything inside.

Aileen and Nik had just moved in and were in the process of setting up home insurance — but it wasn’t finalized in time. That means everything Aileen owned — from her bed to her work computer — is gone. And true to who she is, she’s most heartbroken over the sentimental items that can never be replaced.

Aileen has been a frontline worker in the Downtown Eastside for over five years, co-founding Frontline Baddies, and dedicating herself to supporting others in their hardest moments. She’s been a pillar in our community — always giving, always showing up — and now she needs that same support returned.

Please consider donating anything you can. Every dollar helps Aileen and Nik begin to rebuild their lives from scratch. And if you can’t donate, sharing this with your network is just as valuable.

Let’s show up for someone who’s spent years showing up for others.

Thank you so much for your kindness and support.