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Photo Credit: EverythingGP
By Curtis Galbraith
Community

Hope in the City back in Grande Prairie this year

Nov 24, 2023 | 6:00 AM

The Grande Prairie branch of the Salvation Army is bringing back Hope in the City again today (Friday, November 24).

The canteen will be at the Wapiti House shelter and St. Lawrence Centre between 1 and 3 p.m. giving out hand warmers, warm drinks and information on local social services to the street population.

Captain Peter Kim says this serves as an awareness campaign for the work the Salvation Army does in Grande Prairie.

“Just bring awareness to donors and to the community that the Salvation Army is doing good work in our community and helping them to see that there is still hope for those individuals who are struggling.”

Kim says Hope in the City is being done this year as part of National Addictions Awareness Week.

He is not sure how many people it will reach.

“We know that the homeless count is somewhere over 300, so we’re hoping to reach as many people as possible and that we’re able to bring awareness to a very serious issue, whether it’s alcoholism or whether it is (the) opioid crisis.”

Kim adds he wants people to know that there are what he calls “healthy and positive alternatives.”

Volunteers needed for Christmas Kettle Campaign

Kim says the Christmas Kettle Campaign is also in need of volunteers.

He adds the need for help because of food insecurity takes in a lot more people than those on the street.

“People who are working, who are your neighbours, they’re also struggling as well.”

“That’s where the Salvation Army Food Bank here in Grande Prairie is also in need, as well as our Community Kitchen, which (now serves) three meals a day throughout the week.”

Anyone who wants to help can call the Salvation Army at 780-296-3946 or email gpchristmaskettles@gmail.com.

People who want to donate can do so at one of the kettles located at several businesses or on the Salvation Army’s website.

by Curtis Galbraith