Dear Editor,
During Homelessness Action Week in October, the community of Richmond came together to support the annual Richmond Homeless Connect.
This year, more than 50 guests were welcomed. They enjoyed the services provided by community services volunteers such as haircuts, foot care, dental hygiene, flu shots and bike repair, as well as a pancake breakfast by Steveston Rotary and a nutritious luncheon.
Guests were also provided with clothing and footwear collected by Richmond Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop, take away hygiene kits and a nutritional snack. Local community agencies on site provided information and referrals to income assistance, addiction services, youth services, mental health services and employment services.
Homeless Connect would not happen without the help and support of many. On behalf of the organizers, the Richmond Homelessness Coalition, we would like to thank Richmond residents who donated warm clothing and personal care items.
Christmas is a time of giving and the Richmond community responds amazingly to the many needs of our community. With this letter, we would like to come back to our community to ask for help on behalf of the organizations that provide help to people experiencing homelessness year round.
These organizations respond with support to individual needs of the people they serve. There are always unanticipated needs that come to their attention as a result.
These organizations are: St. Alban’s Anglican Church, Outreach and Advocacy (which includes a year-round drop in program), Richmond House, a men’s shelter run by Richmond Salvation Army, Turning Point Housing Society and CHIMO Community Services that provides outreach and support services to people experiencing homelessness.
Any one of these organizations could put community donations to good use, supporting people experiencing homelessness. Please contact them directly for information on how to make a donation.
Lynda Brummitt
Facilitation administrator
Richmond Homelessness Coalition
