Vancouver, We’re Struggling — And No One Seems to Notice

Vancouver, We’re Struggling — And No One Seems to Notice

Lately, life in Vancouver feels impossible. Grocery prices are outrageous, shelves are often empty, and even customer service feels gone. $100 used to fill a cart — now $50 barely gets a few items. On my way home, I saw tents in False Creek, more people just trying to survive in a city that seems to have forgotten them.

It’s not about blaming anyone who comes here or works in these stores — they’re dealing with the same pressures we are. The problem is the system itself. Policies that allow new families to arrive without ensuring there’s housing, jobs, or community support for people already here are leaving both locals and newcomers struggling. Social assistance, affordable housing, and decent-paying jobs are scarce. The cost of living has skyrocketed, but the support system hasn’t kept up.

Why are some families able to bring relatives while our own families can’t get help? It’s not a question of fairness — it’s a question of priorities. Governments have chosen growth, immigration, and economic numbers over the people already living here. And in the meantime, everyday life has become a fight for survival.

It’s heartbreaking, frustrating, and exhausting. But maybe the first step is asking the hard questions:

• How did we get here?
• Who benefits from the system as it is?
• And most importantly — what can we do to make life better for everyone living in this city?

We can’t just blame people — we have to face the system that’s creating these struggles and start demanding real change.

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The Irony of Compensation vs. Compassion

 The Irony of Compensation vs. Compassion: CEOs vs. Unhoused People in Vancouver

What CEOs of Non-Profits and Social Service Agencies Receive:

• CEO salaries in large BC non-profits often range between $150,000 to over $300,000/year.
• Some executives in major housing or homelessness organizations have reported salaries exceeding $200,000 annually.
• These leaders are paid handsomely to “manage” and “solve” homelessness and poverty — overseeing millions in budgets, grants, and public funds.
• They enjoy stable, well-resourced offices, benefits, pensions, and prestige.

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What People Experiencing Homelessness or Housing Insecurity Get:

• On Income Assistance, individuals receive approximately $1,060/month (basic needs + shelter allowance).
• Rent for a room in an SRO or cheap shared housing can be $500–$700/month or more, often exceeding assistance limits.
• Many must live in unsafe, unsanitary, overcrowded conditions, or outdoors in tents or shelters.
• They face social stigma, discrimination, and criminalization for “choosing” homelessness, despite systemic barriers.
• Public perception often dehumanizes or blames them, implying they don’t “deserve” more support.

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The Stark Contrast:

Aspect	CEOs of Social Service Agencies	Homeless/Unhoused Individuals
Annual Income	$150,000 – $300,000+	~$12,000 per year (social assistance)
Housing Situation	Comfortable, stable, often owned or leased	SROs, shelters, tents, or street homelessness
Access to Healthcare	Full benefits and employer-provided plans	Limited access; often rely on emergency care
Public Perception	Respected leaders, “experts”	Marginalized, blamed for their situation
Ability to Save/Plan	Yes, with disposable income	Almost impossible with current assistance levels

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Why Is This a Problem?

• It reflects systemic discrimination and misplaced priorities: society rewards those who manage poverty with wealth, while punishing those who experience it with neglect.
• It fuels social inequality by allowing wealth accumulation at the top while basic survival remains out of reach for many.
• It perpetuates stereotypes that homeless people are “lazy” or “undeserving,” ignoring the structural causes like lack of affordable housing and inadequate assistance.
• It undermines trust in the social support system, since those in power appear disconnected from lived realities.

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What People Say:

“CEOs are making more than twice what a doctor makes, yet people who are literally living in tents can’t get rent assistance to cover a room. How is that justice?” — Advocacy group spokesperson
“If social services really cared, the money would go to people, not to executive paychecks.” — Former unhoused resident

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Conclusion:

There’s a deep irony and injustice in a system that compensates executives so highly for addressing homelessness while the unhoused struggle daily with inadequate resources, discrimination, and invisibility. Real change demands both reinvesting funds to support those in need and rethinking how leadership is compensated in the social services sector to align with community values and equity.

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Tomorrow Morning: The Leveling

 Here's a little a vivid dystopian-utopian hybrid—a dream that starts with collapse but blooms into something far better.

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✨ Tomorrow Morning: The Leveling

I wake to a silence I haven’t heard in years. No rumbling garbage trucks, no hum of traffic. Outside my window, the street is full—but not with cars. It’s people. Marching, singing, holding signs that simply read: ENOUGH.

The strike had started a week ago, a whisper in the underground channels:
Don’t work. Don’t buy. Don’t comply.

By dawn today, the whisper was a roar. Every office tower stood empty. Supermarket shelves, guarded for decades by profit, were unlocked and left for people to take what they needed—no more, no less. City Hall’s glass doors were open too, but no one was inside. The “leaders” had fled, their bank accounts meaningless now that no one would serve them for money.

And here was the strangest thing: no chaos.

Neighbours who barely spoke before were knocking on each other’s doors, organizing food shares, swapping blankets, pooling skills. The internet still worked, but instead of ads and clickbait, people were streaming lessons: how to grow food in a bucket, how to build a solar panel from scrap, how to fix a bike.

A council formed, not from elections but from volunteers—gardeners, teachers, mechanics, elders, parents—people the community trusted. Their first decree was simple: Every person will be paid the same. No rent, no mortgages. Housing is a right. Everyone gets what we used to call “minimum wage,” but now it’s more than enough, because rent has fallen to zero and food is shared.

Former CEOs were in the streets too, in jeans and hoodies, planting seedlings, learning to swing hammers, not because they had to but because they had finally realized their survival depended on everyone else’s. The police weren’t gone, exactly—but the role had shifted to community safety, walking alongside neighbours instead of patrolling against them.

Mother Earth began to breathe again. Without the constant churn of factories making useless things, the air tasted fresher by the week. Migratory birds returned early, confused but welcome. Kids played in the streets, their laughter echoing off buildings that had once been luxury condos, now homes for families.

It was not communism, not socialism, not capitalism. It was something unnamed, something new—built on the idea that we belong to the Earth, not the other way around.

I leaned out my window and saw a chalk message scrawled on the pavement below:

We are not free until all of us are free.

For the first time in my life, I believed it.

About The Changerz

 ✨ About The Changerz (English)

Welcome to The Changerz—a space for connection, creativity, and collective change.

Over the past decade, our world has been tested—by pandemics, climate breakdowns, social injustice, and economic uncertainty. But in every challenge, there’s also an opportunity: to grow, to rise, and to come together.

The Changerz is more than a blog—it's a gathering place for grassroots ideas, bold imagination, and community-powered solutions. Whether through art, activism, mutual aid, gardening, or storytelling, this is where we empower each other to build a brighter, more caring future.

This is your space. Your spark matters.

Let’s create change—together, right now.

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✨ Acerca de The Changerz (Español)

Bienvenid@ a The Changerz—un espacio para la conexión, la creatividad y el cambio colectivo.

Durante la última década, nuestro mundo ha sido puesto a prueba: pandemias, crisis climáticas, injusticias sociales y una economía inestable. Pero dentro de cada desafío también hay una oportunidad: para crecer, levantarnos y unirnos.

The Changerz es más que un blog—es un punto de encuentro para ideas comunitarias, imaginación valiente y soluciones impulsadas por la gente. Ya sea a través del arte, el activismo, la ayuda mutua, la jardinería o el relato de historias, aquí nos fortalecemos unos a otros para construir un futuro más justo y solidario.

Este es tu espacio. Tu chispa importa.

Hagamos el cambio—junt@s, desde ahora.

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✨ À propos de The Changerz (Français)

Bienvenue sur The Changerz—un espace de connexion, de créativité et de changement collectif.

Au cours de la dernière décennie, notre monde a été mis à l’épreuve : pandémies, urgences climatiques, injustices sociales, instabilité économique. Mais chaque crise cache une opportunité : grandir, s’unir, et se relever ensemble.

The Changerz est bien plus qu’un blog—c’est un lieu de rencontres pour les idées de terrain, l’imagination audacieuse et les solutions communautaires. Que ce soit par l’art, l’activisme, l’entraide, le jardinage ou le récit, ici nous nous donnons les moyens de bâtir un avenir plus lumineux et solidaire.

Cet espace est le tien. Ton étincelle compte.

Changeons les choses—ensemble, dès maintenant.

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Skytrain Ambassadors Program: Bridging Generations and Building Community

 Imagine a Joyful Commute 🌟

What if the Skytrain wasn’t just a ride but a journey of connection?

🎶 Music trains with live performances

📖 Poetry trains for quiet reflection

🎨 Art-filled cars with colorful murals

🤝 Ambassadors—seniors and young adults—offering guidance, sharing talents, and building community

🚆 Let’s transform Vancouver’s transit system into something vibrant, welcoming, and inspiring! I’ve shared my vision on The Changerz blog, where change begins with bold ideas.

✨ Read the full proposal below

📣 What do YOU think? Could this idea bring joy back to commuting? Comment, share, and help spread the word! Together, we can make this dream a reality.

#TheChangerz #SkytrainAmbassadors #TransformTransit #VancouverCommunity #ArtOnTransit #

BuildConnection

Skytrain Ambassadors Program: Bridging Generations and Building Community

1. Purpose:

Create a sense of warmth, connection, and cultural enrichment on the Skytrain by employing seniors and young adults as ambassadors who share talents, foster positive interactions, and enhance the commuting experience.

2. Roles of Ambassadors:

Guides: Assist riders with directions, ticketing, and general questions.

Observers: Build relationships with regular commuters and identify when someone may need help.

Entertainers: Share their talents during commutes or on platforms, such as playing music, performing magic tricks, or storytelling.

Community Builders: Gather feedback from passengers, encourage conversations, and advocate for inclusivity.

3. Themed Trains:

Music Train: Rotating local musicians performing live.

Poetry Train: Quiet cars with poetry readings or audiobooks for a calm atmosphere.

Conversation Train: A space for casual chats and meeting new people.

Art Train: Murals, rotating exhibits by local artists, and creative decor.

4. Benefits:

For Seniors: Provides meaningful employment, reduces isolation, and allows them to share wisdom and skills.

For Young Adults: Offers mentorship opportunities and a chance to develop social and leadership skills.

For Commuters: Transforms the daily grind into a vibrant, uplifting experience.

For the Community: Fosters a sense of belonging and pride in public spaces.

5. Murals and Decor:

Collaborate with local artists to design murals that reflect the community’s culture and history, making the trains and stations more inviting.

6. Technology Integration:

A website and app where commuters can view schedules for themed trains, leave feedback, and learn about the ambassadors and events.

QR codes on trains for quick access to train themes, performer bios, or emergency contacts.

7. Support Network:

Ambassadors can connect commuters with appropriate resources, such as mental health support or lost-and-found assistance.

8. Implementation Steps:

Pilot Program: Start with a single themed train and evaluate passenger response.

Partnerships: Collaborate with local cultural organizations, seniors' groups, and youth programs.

Sponsorships: Seek funding from businesses or government grants to cover cost.

Imagining the Change:

Picture a musician softly strumming a guitar while people relax. On another train, someone reads a classic poem, and passengers nod along in shared serenity. Seniors warmly greet riders at the door, while young adults help visitors navigate the system. Colorful murals surround you, turning every ride into a unique experience.

This idea could redefine commuting in Vancouver and beyond, turning it into an opportunity for connection, creativity, and community care.

Great Minds, Great Responsibilities

"We are all brothers and sisters. We are all part of the same family, and it is time we recognized that." – Chief Dan George

In a world where it's easy to get caught up in the pettiness of politics—mocking mannerisms, tearing people down for the smallest missteps—Chief Dan George’s words remind us of a higher purpose. We are all connected, all part of the same family, and our actions reflect that connection.

Let’s rise above the noise and focus on what truly matters.

"The more we try to control the world, the more it controls us." – Chief Dan George

We live in a time where power structures and their leaders seem to thrive on chaos, division, and mockery. They want us distracted, fighting over appearances and personalities, rather than focusing on substance—the policies, the actions, the real-world consequences.

We don’t need to copy their examples. We don’t need to stoop to their level. Let’s fight back by staying on higher ground.

"It is not who is right, but what is right, that is of importance." – Chief Dan George

Our fight is about what is right—for the people, for the planet, for the future. It’s not about tearing down individuals; it’s about lifting up values, truth, and justice. We can use humour to shine a light on the flaws in the system, but we must ensure our humour elevates and doesn’t degrade.

Humour can be a sharp tool, but we must wield it with care. Let’s focus on what we can change, not just what we can criticize. We must be the leaders who show how it’s done, by staying true to integrity and compassion.

"A leader is one who leads the way by showing his people how to be human." – Chief Dan George

We are all leaders in our own right. So let’s lead with wisdom, humility, and respect. Let’s remind each other—including ourselves—that we are here to build, not to destroy. We are here to inspire, not to mock. Together, we can rise above the distractions, admit when we’ve missed the mark, and fight forward with purpose and dignity.

The "Time Traveler's Talk Show" Concept

 The "Time Traveler's Talk Show" Concept

The Setting:

Imagine a talk-show stage set in a post-apocalyptic world. The screen behind the hosts flickers to life with grainy, vintage footage from the 1940s, ‘60s, and beyond. As each historical figure is introduced, they emerge from the static like guests from a forgotten time. The guests are seated on uncomfortable old-fashioned chairs, like they've just stepped out of a history book or VCR tape.

Characters and Their Roles:

1. Albert Einstein

The host of the show, holding the reigns in their calm, yet sarcastic demeanor. Their keen intellect comes through, but they're increasingly baffled by the absurdity of modern events. They're the one trying to keep the conversation grounded, but more often than not, they get shook by the sheer chaos of it all.

Catchphrase: “You see, this is exactly what I was trying to explain with the theory of relativity—how time can be…so…damn…fickle.”

2. Nikola Tesla

A guest on the show who gets all riled up about modern technology. Tesla, of course, is always ranting about wireless power, shaking their head at the destruction caused by misused science. They have great ideas, but they were all ignored in their time.

Catchphrase: “The future is mine! But you people are too busy building batteries to power your smartphones. Foolish!”

3. Frida Kahlo

The snarky and bold voice of the show. Frida is often irritated by the political correctness and superficiality of modern art and identity politics. They offer witty, biting commentary about the shallow narratives the world often clings to while dismissing the real, complex struggles of marginalized voices.

Catchphrase: “Art is not a hashtag. Your self-expression is more about your ego than your soul. Try painting your true self, not your Insta-profile.”

4. FDR (Franklin D. Roosevelt)

The wise and stoic politician, always ready to drop pearls of wisdom about the human condition, even if the state of the world is dark. They’re often in shock over how history’s lessons are being ignored. They're the “elder statesperson,” weighing in on matters of governance, social justice, and the failure of politics to evolve.

Catchphrase: “In times of crisis, we should ask not what our nation can do for us, but why we’ve forgotten the lessons of history.”

5. Karl Marx

They are a guest panelist, forever rolling their eyes at capitalism’s grotesque exploitation and inequality. Marx is appalled at the future of consumerism and corporate greed. They will often offer fiery commentary on the political landscape, whether it's the rise of fascist-like leaders or the unchecked power of multinational corporations.

Catchphrase: “You can’t solve inequality with new brands of capitalism, comrade. You need a revolution!”

6. Rosa Parks

The calm, collected force in the group. Rosa’s presence is powerful and steady, and they speak with wisdom about civil rights, equality, and the power of quiet resistance. They call out the hypocrisy of modern racial politics and the systemic inequality that still pervades.

Catchphrase: “You may have fought for civil rights, but have you fought for civil justice?”

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The First Episode: The Introduction

Scene:

[Einstein opens the show with a long sigh, the crackling static of history in the background.]

Einstein:

“Welcome, welcome to the Time Traveler’s Talk Show, where we’ve managed to pull some of history’s most fascinating minds into a conversation about...well, you, the future. Or, as I’ve come to call it, the great miscalculation of humanity.”

[Frida Kahlo adjusts their chair, glaring at Einstein.]

Frida Kahlo:

“Miscalculation? Darling, this world isn’t a mistake. It’s an embarrassment.”

[Tesla waves their hand impatiently.]

Tesla:

“Embarrassment? No, this is an electrical failure—they’ve completely misused the potential of wireless technology, but they’re too busy charging their phones to notice.”

Einstein:

“Actually, I’d argue the real failure is the lack of intellectual curiosity. These people are out there trying to change the world with tweets and hashtags, instead of with ideas that actually matter.”

[FDR, wheeling in from the side, speaks up.]

FDR:

“Gentlepeople, perhaps we should focus on action. History has shown that people don’t listen until they’re forced to. The question is—what’s the cost of their ignorance?”

[Rosa Parks nods solemnly.]

Rosa Parks:

“The cost, Mr. Roosevelt, is that people are still being marginalized. It's just in new, more subtle forms now. You may think the fight is over, but I see too much of the same struggle, masked by a shiny new layer.”

[Marx, having been quiet up until now, slams their fist on the table.]

Marx:

“Let me guess—you want them to wake up and realize that they’re still slaves. Except now, they’re slaves to their consumer goods. Slaves to the system.”

[Einstein rubs their temples.]

Einstein:

“You know, the more I listen to you all, the more I realize that nothing ever really changes...except the manner in which history repeats itself.”

Next Steps:

Jas’s Discovery: Jas, still reeling from their discovery of the tapes, finds more—each one revealing a different “historical debate” on issues like war, inequality, and the future of democracy. They start piecing together history’s warnings, hoping to help save their world.

Guest Appearances: In later episodes, historical figures like Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, or Socrates might even stop by to drop wisdom or quip about the madness of modern politics.

Tone: This series should remain light-hearted, almost parody-like, but underneath, it carries serious social critique.

 The mix of historical figures allows the audience to not only laugh but also reflect on the state of the world.

📝📚🖌️⭐🌟✨🔥💯

Disclaimer:

The content shared in this post is part of an ongoing collaborative exploration for the upcoming book The Alchemy of Ivy Mae: Time Traveler's Talk Show Concept. This draft is a work in progress, co-created with input from myself and an AI assistant. The ideas and content presented here are still being developed and are subject to significant revisions.

This work is intended for exploratory purposes, and any attempt to co-opt, misrepresent, or appropriate these ideas without permission will not be tolerated. All rights to this content are reserved, and any unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution is prohibited under intellectual property laws.