For some, a new lease on life begins with the basics: clean teeth, a haircut and a warm jacket.
The creature comforts many take for granted inspired frantic lineups at yesterday’s bi-annual Homeless Connect, where a new pair of reading glasses and a basic care package are invaluable items.
Dozens of social agencies providing solutions on housing, medical care, food, employment, counseling, clothing and child care came together under the roof of the Shaw Conference Centre yesterday.
“They’re receiving it in an environment that’s all about them,” said Homeward Trust executive director Susan McGee, adding basic personal services like haircuts and a foot care clinic were most wanted. “It’s surprising how many people don’t access these services on a regular basis.”
A 2008 count concluded nearly 3,100 people in Edmonton are homeless. Of those, around 1,100 made it to Homeless Connect yesterday, a number McGee said isn’t surprising, as many homeless intentionally avoid identifying themselves as such.
Attendees made a beeline for free winter coats, which were mostly picked-through by the afternoon, United Way staff said.
Men’s winter coats are like gold at Homeless Connect, United Way staffer Earl Basechnik said, adding though the majority of homeless in Edmonton are men, women take men’s coats more often than not.
“Their coat is not only the thing that keeps them warm, but something they sleep on‚ it’s their linens and their pillow. Their footwear is their mode of transportation,” said spokeswoman Melanie Popowich.
The group handed out nearly 2,000 coats yesterday, and worked together with other agencies to distribute essentials.
McGee said the event’s ‘united front’ model needs to become the industry standard.
“I don’t think, until you get to an event like this, that you realize how important it is,” McGee said.
