Homeless Shelter Moves to “Take-Out” Service
Streethelp is moving ASAP to a take-out food shelter as a proactive step to help prevent any spread of illness among the homeless.
“We are very concerned about the homeless and we also want to ensure we do what is best for our overall community, “says Christine Wilson-Furlonger. “We have studied this issue and discussed options. We know having social distancing is important while still protecting and supporting our most vulnerable in our society. “
Food and water are necessities so a take-out plan is now underway. And volunteers are needed to replace the people who no longer can help out due to age or other health issues. With this new strategy, volunteers will have no contact with the homeless population and can instead help with food preparation and packaging.
Wilson-Furlonger says they are sourcing appropriate take out containers and are asking for donations of “immune boosting foods”, homemade items, fresh fruits and vegetables and financial help to cover added costs of containers.
We know a strong immune system is key during this current pandemic. We hope to increase food donations to keep our homeless as healthy as possible.
We want to do our part to help “flatten the curve” – and as Canada’s Public Health Officer says, the time to act is now and to act together, she says.
Having taken these steps Wilson-Furlonger has a list of items that would help make their work easier:
- Fresh vegetables and fruit
- Homemade stew, hearty soup, baked beans,
- Pre-made sandwiches
- Peanut butter, jam, packaged cold meats
- Bottled juice and water
- Granola bars, protein bars,
- Easy open tins of canned tuna, meats, fruit
And more volunteers – who can cover shifts on an as needed basis.
“We need more help and we will ensure volunteers can be protected by being inside and not in contact with any of the homeless,” she says.
To offer help, contact call Street Help Homeless Centre at 519-977-9200.
Note: Tax receipts can be issued for donations of more than $20.
