Bringing Purpose to Commercial Spaces

We were honoured to welcome Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, Ravi Kahlon, for a tour of CIRES-managed commercial spaces in the Downtown Eastside. Walking through the neighbourhood together, our Executive Director, Steven Johnston and Board Chair, Duncan Wlodarczak had the opportunity to show firsthand how our unique approach to commercial leasing supports businesses with purpose—keeping storefronts active, sustaining jobs, and strengthening the local economy.

Over coffee at Nelson the Seagull - a CIRES' subtenant - the café’s owner shared how our Impact Support Services have helped bring connection between the business and community members. Their story is just one example of how the right partnerships can make a lasting difference.

We appreciate Minister Kahlon taking the time to meet with us, hear directly from local businesses, and see the impact of this work in action.

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