Dear Editor,
Oct. 18 marked Richmond’s 10th annual Community Connect event (formerly Homeless Connect) at St. Alban Anglican Church.
Thirty Richmond service agencies and their volunteers came together to welcome over 80 guests who are homeless, at risk or in precarious circumstances.
They enjoyed numerous free services such as haircuts, foot care, dental hygiene, flu shots and bike repair as well as enjoying a pancake breakfast and a nutritious luncheon.
Guests were also provided with clothing and footwear collected from thoughtful Richmond residents and take-away nutritional snacks and hygiene kits. Local community service agencies on site provided information and referrals to income assistance, addiction and mental health services and employment services.
Guests could also take away a professional photograph, which was a big hit.
Richmond Community Connect would not happen without the help and support of community members, organizations, service clubs and businesses. On behalf of the organizers, we thank all of them.
On behalf of the local community services that provide help to people experiencing homelessness year-round, we would ask that they be remembered as we approach the holiday giving season.
These organizations respond with support to individual needs of the people they serve year round, and often there are unanticipated needs that come to their attention as a result.
The organizations are: St. Alban Anglican Church; Richmond Salvation Army; Turning Point Recovery Society; CHIMO Community Services and the Richmond Food Bank.
Contact them directly for information on how to make a donation.
De Whalen
RICHMOND
