- 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4th at the Shaw Conference Centre

For individuals experiencing homelessness, at risk of becoming homeless, or those experiencing hidden homelessness, accessing everyday services can be an incredible challenge. That's why Homeward Trust- Edmonton and the Shaw Conference Centre are teaming up on Sunday, Oct. 4th 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.

This is the third Homeless Connect Edmonton event in a year and this time 60 service providers are involved and an on-site staffed daycare has been added.

“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 become easily overwhelmed. Having all services under one roof goes a long way toward simplifying the entire process.”

Those who attend this event can expect a speakers’ corner where guests and volunteers can talk about their experiences. As well, a tepee will be on the premises for elder counselling as well as a smudge ceremony with Aboriginal Elders and Mayor Stephen Mandel at 11:15 a.m., Sunday, Oct. 4.

“Homeless Connect would not be possible without all the sponsors, service providers, and volunteers working together for a greater good. The United Way organized donation drives and created comfort kits and the response from the business communities has been nothing short of inspiring,” says Joanne Currie, Homeless Connect co-chair and a community investment specialist with the United Way. “And it’s great that the Shaw Conference Centre and ETS have generously agreed to provide the gathering place and free transportation to and from the event.”

Note to Media: You are invited to meet volunteers at Homeward Trust on Thursday, Oct. 1st at 10:30 a.m. as they walk thru the inner city promoting Sunday’s event to Edmonton’s homeless population. Homeward Trust is located at 6th floor, 10242-105 Street, Edmonton.

For more information, please contact:

Crystal McPhee
Communications Coordinator
Shaw Conference Centre
780.934.0311 cmcphee@edmonton.com

Or

Wendy Myshak
Project Coordinator, Homeless Connect
780.700.2601
wmyshak@homewardtrust.ca   

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.