The Founder of Harvest House says they have seen less people coming into their shelter at night, since the opening of the Out of the Cold shelter on Assomption Boulevard.
But there seem to be more guests at the daytime community centre and that has left them short of volunteers.
Cal Maskery says it takes a special type of person to help the homeless. Sometimes there are altercations and they need a volunteer who is willing to listen, “When we have extra volunteers, someone can go for a walk around the block and just listen to them and let them get their issue out. Then they come back apologizing. So they are a very lovable community, but in some ways it is difficult.”
Maskery says they get a wide range of people at the shelter. From those who are just down on their luck, to others who may be suffering from mental health issues.
“Volunteers can just be there to greet people when they are coming in. Maybe they sit down and play a board game with them or play a game of cars. Some people serve meals or make coffee, and just to make it a welcoming experience for those coming in, ” Maskery says.
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