Nanaimo is in the midst of a housing and homelessness crisis, so this October 13 to 19, 2019, we’re taking the opportunity to create awareness and increase understanding about how it’s impacting our community.
During Homelessness Action Week, you’re invited to participate in a number of events hosted by members of the Nanaimo Homeless Coalition, or to become involved by volunteering or donating. Many service providers who work day-in and day-out with Nanaimo’s homeless population are opening their doors and inviting you to learn more about the work they do and the challenges they face.
To take further action, we encourage you to take advantage of the Federal election and speak with your local candidates about their stance on homelessness. This is an opportunity to question how they plan to address homelessness, the opioid crisis, and to reduce poverty overall. What steps will they take and is it a priority for them?
Spread the word about Homelessness Action Week and attend a local event:
Island Crisis Care Society – Coffee & Conversation
October 16, 2019
9:30am – 11:00am
#3 – 1200 Princess Royal Ave, Nanaimo, BC
Through housing and outreach programs, Island Crisis Care Society (ICCS) helps people in crisis stabilize and find the support, resources, and services they need to recover and be well. All Nanaimo residents are invited to sit down with the dedicated team at ICCS, enjoy a hot cup of coffee, learn more about their programs and ask questions about how they’re working to help homeless citizens in Nanaimo.
Us & Them – Free Film Screening
Hosted by United Way Central Northern Vancouver Island, City of Nanaimo and Vancouver Island University
October 17, 2019
VIU’s Nanaimo Campus – Building 250, Room 125
6 pm film screening
Filmmaker Krista Loughton befriends four chronically homeless people on the streets of Victoria in an effort to help them heal their lives. These four people reveal the heartrending realities of their lives. The severe challenges of life on the street are portrayed with an unapologetic openness, in both emotive and humorous ways. Us & Them is a film about transformation through human connection. For the full trailer, visit https://www.usandthemthefilm.ca/
The Salvation Army – Open House
October 17, 2019
11:00am – 1:00pm
19 Nicol St, Nanaimo, BC
Learn more about what really goes on at The Salvation Army, meet the team and find out how they’re working to help the community in Nanaimo. Everyone is welcome to stop by for appies and a tour of their facilities.
Nanaimo 7-10 Club Society – Open House
October 17, 2019
Noon to 6:00pm
285 Prideaux St., Nanaimo, BC
The Nanaimo 7-10 Club Society has been feeding people with dignity and respect since 1985. Their Meal Program provides a hot nutritious breakfast, homemade soup, plus a brown bag lunch to go that is served by community volunteers to those in need The public is welcome to join their patrons, volunteers, staff and board for soup and sandwiches, while learning more about their important work.
For those unable to attend these great events, there are many opportunities to give back through volunteer work and donations. For more information on Homelessness Action Week visit www.nanaimohomelesscoalition.ca
About the Nanaimo Homeless Coalition
The Nanaimo Homeless Coalition drives solutions to end homelessness by uniting the organizations, citizens and governments which support at-risk residents, while also working to diminish the harm caused by homelessness on individuals and community.