May 20, 2009

Opening Doors for Edmonton’s Homeless
- 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday May 24th at the Shaw Conference Centre

For homeless people and those on the verge of becoming homeless, accessing everyday services can be an
incredible challenge. That's why Homeward Trust Edmonton and the Shaw Conference Centre are teaming
up again this Sunday, May 24th to offer those in need a one-stop venue of various free services and advice,
including: mental health assessments, dental care, haircuts, immunizations, birth-control, housing
information, and employment and training services.

The first Homeless Connect Edmonton, held October 5, 2008, was a huge success, engaging hundreds of
volunteers and over 40 social service agencies. It offered a day of kindness to more than 1,800 of
Edmonton’s homeless and at-risk citizens.

“An event like Homeless Connect is invaluable to Edmonton’s less fortunate,” says Susan McGee, Executive
Director of Homeward Trust Edmonton. “When trying to get assistance, people can be overwhelmed with
the number of service providers and the layers of government they have to deal with. Having one place
where they can seek help and ask questions goes a long way toward simplifying the entire process for
everyone.”

Those who attend this event can expect a speakers’ corner where guests and volunteers can talk about
their experiences. As well, a teepee will be on the premises for Aboriginal smudge ceremonies.

“Homeless Connect would not be possible without all the sponsors, service providers and compassionate
volunteers working together for the greater good of our community,” says Cliff Higuchi, Assistant General
Manager of the Shaw Conference Centre and Homeless Connect co-chair. “ETS is providing guests and
volunteers with free transportation to and from the event, the United Way organized donation drives and
created comfort kits and the response from the business communities has been nothing short of inspiring.”

Over 95 per cent of volunteers surveyed said they would volunteer again. As a result, Homeward Trust
filled 230 volunteer positions over a month before the event.

For more information please contact:

Crystal McPhee
Communications Coordinator
Shaw Conference Centre (EEDC)
cmcphee@edmonton.com
780.917-7897 or 780.862.6474

Kalpana Robbins
Director of Communications
Homeward Trust Edmonton
krobbins@homewardtrust.ca
780.496.2632 or 780.700.2602

Homeless Connect Edmonton is organized by volunteer committees that provide direction and support for the event.
Homeward Trust Edmonton, a not-for-profit organization providing leadership and resources towards ending
homelessness, coordinates the overall work plan and ensures the event aligns with similar Edmonton initiatives.