Community outreach brings relief from Winnipeg heat wave

WINNIPEG, MB – Last week, Winnipeggers found themselves in the grip of a heatwave with humidity indexes reaching 40, well into the danger zone.  During these dog days of summer, it becomes even more important to stay hydrated.  For many of us, water is only a turn of a tap away, but this isn't always the case for those living with the effects of poverty, mental illness or addictions.

Major Rob Kerr lead a group of volunteers from The Salvation Army Prairie Division's Public Relations office into Central Park in the downtown core of Winnipeg to provide hydration to those who may not have readily available sources of water at their disposal.  During this two day outreach, over 1,100 bottles of water were supplied to those who needed it most.

Those handing out water were also able to make a direct connection to those they serve and, in some cases, were able to refer people to programs to fill specific needs they may have.  

Speaking about the importance of this kind of service, Major Kerr explained, "We saw this as an extension of our existing services to the people of the city's core.   By bringing water out to the people in the community it meant that they did not have to exert any extra energy getting to these resources.  Giving out a bottle of water seems like such a simple thing but it gave us great opportunities to talk to people, hear their story and find out how we can help them on the next step on their life's journey.  I believe we not only served their physical need for water but also demonstrated to each person we met that they are important to us and we care about them."

We would like to thank the leadership at Siloam Mission for sharing their resources with us.  In the spirit of partnership in ministry, when they found they had a surplus of bottled water that had been donated to them, they graciously contributed it to the cause.

Hydration services at The Salvation Army's downtown buildings: Winnipeg Booth Centre, 180 Henry Avenue and Weetamah, 324 Logan Avenue, continue even with the welcome break in the heat.

"Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters;" (Isaiah 55:1a)

Clockwise from top left: Major Rob Kerr shakes hands with local resident; volunteer Helen approaches Community Response Unit to get more water bottles for distribution; CRU parked ready to serve; happy water recipients

Featured image: Arthur Heathcote hands off a water bottle to a passing cyclist