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Donations being collected for upcoming Project Connect

Nov 6, 2018 | 11:15 AM

LETHBRIDGE – The numbers are growing.

Twice a year, Project Connect brings together around 65 agencies to help people who have become homeless or are vulnerable to becoming homeless, by connecting them with needed services. Project coordinator Aileen Burke said they’re expecting between 400-500 people later this month.

“Unfortunately, we continue to see those numbers rise and our demographics kind of shift,” she said. “We’re seeing more and more young families and more of our immigrant population start to seek these services, which is good in some ways because at least the word’s getting out. But it’s always a little discouraging to see the numbers continue to rise.”

She said the goal is to help prevent people from tipping over into a crisis.

“If we’re able to help get those people connected before crisis hits, then we’re able to mitigate some of those crises and help keep people thriving in our community.”

In advance of the Project Connect gathering, McMan Youth Family and Community Services is hosting a donation drive Friday, Nov. 9 from 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

“Sometimes connecting with services is difficult, and sometimes it’s (a) waitlist,” Burke said, “and so to try and provide some immediate resources to participants when they come through the door, they’re able to access specific supplies that we have on hand.”

The donation wish list includes winter clothing, undergarments, diapers, towels, toiletries and hygiene products, snacks and treats, and unopened pet food. In addition to the collection Friday at McMan, donation boxes have been placed there and at the University of Lethbridge Students Union office, Lethbridge College Students Association office, No Frills north and Save-On-Foods north.

Project Connect will provide its one-stop opportunity to help vulnerable people Saturday, Nov. 24 at the Fritz Sick Memorial Centre.