Winter Help for Those Who Truly Need it

All of Canada is having to deal with extreme cold. But for people experiencing homelessness, bitter temperatures can be deadly. Every night, they just try to survive. The Salvation Army in Winnipeg is one of many centres across the country helping the vulnerable amidst ongoing frigid temperatures.

“Year round, and five days a week, our community response unit goes to 15 or more encampments to do wellness checks. That’s a big part of what we do,” says Debbie Clarke, The Salvation Army’s emergency disaster manager for Manitoba.

Debbie and team take community response unit to encampments

Clarke and her team seek out riverbank encampments, tent cities and bus shelters, offering a listening ear, food, water, winter wear—whatever the need is at the time. Sometimes they follow footprints to new locations, so no one falls through the cracks.

“We want them to see that someone cares.”

“We spend time with people, get to know their name and story,” says Clarke. “Everyone has their own experience. We listen, empathize and celebrate with them. We want them to see that someone cares.”

Just last week, one lady asked for a two-litre bottle of hot water so she could wash. When she was also provided with a towel and hygiene items, she mentioned that she is on a list for housing. The team was humbled to share that milestone with her.

“Some people don’t want to change their circumstances. The encampment is their community.” Clarke respects that.

“Offering something to help them, such as a sleeping bag or blanket, can lead to a conversation.”

Seeing the vulnerable as people first, then focusing on the situation they are going through helps to build trust.

People experiencing homelessness seek refuge in bus shelter

“Approaching people experiencing homelessness with love, respect and a smile is important,” says Clarke. “Offering something to help them, such as a sleeping bag or blanket, can lead to a conversation. That conversation can lead to a trusting relationship where we can provide other resources … truly giving them a hand up.”

The winter and cold weather aren’t favourable for vulnerable people who call the streets home. When you donate to The Salvation Army, you give hope to those who really need it. Your help genuinely does change lives.

By Linda Leigh