Community Café: Call to Action!

Oftentimes we are led to believe that because we can’t see it, it doesn’t exist.  However, while we cannot see the wind, do we not feel it on our face? While we cannot feel the air, do we not breathe it? Just because we do not trip over a homeless person on our sidewalks do not mean homelessness in our community does not exist.

In Canada, every year, 200, 000 people are left out in the cold, absolutely homeless, while millions more are inadequately housed.* Many are forced to choose between clothing or heat, shelter or food.

Members of the Southwestern NL Housing Stability Initiative, along with volunteers from various community businesses, organizations and service groups, joined together during this month’s Community Café on Nov. 14, 2013. Over 147 hot meals were served to those in need of a nutritious meal, a friendly smile or a chance to come in from the cold.  Special thanks to the Indian Head Coop for sponsoring this month’s café and to the numerous partners who support the cafés each month.

Housing and homelessness should be everyone’s concern. We all need to do our part to end this constant struggle for survival. Just as each of us, as Canadians,  are given the right to choose our religion, the right to enter and leave this country, and the right to be equal, so should we each have the right to safe, adequate and affordable housing.

On November 22, 2013, thousands of people across Canada will raise their voices in support of Housing as a Human Right!  It is time that the federal government recognizes that right and coordinates a housing strategy based on human rights.

During this month’s Community Café, dozens of patrons did their small part by signing a petition to be presented to the government demanding Action for Housing!

While we cannot see faith and love, do we not hold it in our hearts?  Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it does not exist.  Do your part to stop homelessness in our community.

 

*The State of Homelessness in Canada 2013, Toronto: Canadian Homelessness Research Network Press.