• Awarded on: October 1, 2008

James Chi Ming Pau, Vancouver, British Columbia
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award

Since immigrating to Canada in 1975, Dr. James Chi Ming Pau has selflessly dedicated himself to providing health services and support to seniors, the disadvantaged and people with addictions, in the Downtown Eastside area of Vancouver. Shortly after his arrival, Dr. Pau immersed himself in his new community and has taken on roles such as those of member of the board of the Carnagie Community Centre, co-founder of the North American Buddhist Friendship Order, and founder of the HIV/IDU Services Consumers Board, which runs a needle exchange program. He has also provided free acupuncture sessions to many patients who could not otherwise afford to pay for the treatment. Dr. Pau works tirelessly to ensure that those in vulnerable situations know that there are people who truly care about their health and well-being.