Project Homeless Connect 9 Matches Homeless Calgarians with Affordable Housing and Support
5/17/2010
For the first time at a Project Homeless Connect (PHC), the Calgary Homeless Foundation (CHF), matched affordable housing units with four homeless families and six individuals, who could see permanent housing and support as soon as June 1, 2010.
For the first time at a Project Homeless Connect (PHC), the Calgary Homeless Foundation (CHF), matched affordable housing units with four homeless families and six individuals, who could see permanent housing and support as soon as June 1, 2010. This was due to the real-time co-operation of Alberta Works, Aspen Family & Community Network, the Inn From the Cold, The Alex Community Health Centre (HomeBase), the Dream Centre and St. Jude's Health Management.
"Today we were able to fast track appointments with income support and co-ordinate with agencies, so families and people staying in shelters and on the street could have housing and support in coming weeks," said Marina Giacomin, Vice-President Programs and Intervention.
As well, Calgary West Central Primary Care Network (PCN) saw significant increase in the number of patients seen by a volunteer staff made up of five physicians, two pharmacists, a dietician, nurses, administration and a partnering optometrist.
"We've been busier today than at other events because repeat clients begin to view physicians as their family doctors," said Kate Campbell, Program Lead for Population Health, Calgary West Central PCN. "We also continue to identify gaps and try to fill them, such as partnering with a community optometrist to fulfill eye health needs."
Another highlight was entertainment by Dan the One Man Band who performed for hundreds of Calgarians as they lined up to enter PHC. One participant said, "He's excellent, especially the Johnny Cash songs, which make the line up go way faster."
"This event would not be possible without the tremendous contributions from the community," said Kathleen Polyak, Senior Communications Advisor, CHF. "Nearly 40 agencies, 150 volunteers, Brookfield Properties and Suncor Energy are the real heroes that make this happen."
PHC is organized three to four times a year by the CHF to make it easier for at-risk or homeless individuals and families to connect with medical agencies, housing opportunities, legal services, counselling services and other assistance. The ninth PHC saw more than 700 Calgarians participate, bringing the total attendees to almost 7,000. The next PHC will be held at Suncor Energy Centre on November 20, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information, visit the CHF website, www.calgaryhomeless.com.
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Photography:
Individuals' stories:
Read about people and famillies who attended PHC: http://www.calgaryhomeless.com/default.asp?FolderID=2507
Media inquiries can be directed to:
Kathleen Polyak
Calgary Homeless Foundation
403-718-8540
403-615-7607 (cell)
kathleen@calgaryhomeless.com