Homelessness Doesn't Have to = Social-less

True faith demands not only our words, but our actions

On December 1^st, I supported World Aids Day by purchasing a coffee. Proceeds went towards those living with HIV and in remembrance of those who died. Cost to me: Free as a friend bought me the beverage. 

World AIDS Day is held each year and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, while showing their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died. World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day, held for the first time in 1988. https://www.worldaidsday.org/   

I took my coffee with me and attended the African Percussion Concert at the University of Victoria. Led by Jordan Hanson, who teaches at the School of Music at UVIC, his programs for schools, community and organizations have been the subject of over 50 national and international radio and television features. From coast to coast, Jordan has now taught more than 100,000 Canadians to drum. ~ World beat drumming brochure.  http://www.drumvictoria.com/

This performance was free and held to offer an enticing glimpse into the show that followed the next evening. 

Afterwards, I saw a market being held at UVIC and decided to take a look. The talents of many artisans were remarkable in each craft they are skilled at. I found my way to a table, where beautiful gift baskets were being raffled off for The United Way, Greater Victoria chapter. 

Their motto is: Together, we are possibility. Our mission is to improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action in Greater Victoria. http://uwgv.ca/

I had some spare change and bought a $5 ticket, with the sole purpose of re-gifting it to my peers gift bags, if I had won. 

In the evening, I attended the 25th year anniversary celebration and fundraiser of Art with Heart. 

The evening included a delicious array of food, piano music, door prizes and a silent auction displaying artwork for sale.

These beautiful candle/holders were given to those in attendance. The empowering words read: "Transforming the community, One woman at a time."

All funds raised were put towards WIN programs, which support women on their journey between crisis, financial self-sufficiency and wellness. Cost to me: free, as this was an event the community was invited to.  

Handmade shopping bags with brilliant quotes were sold

Last night, I attended the annual NGO HO HO - a holiday party for Victoria's non-profit community. Thanks to NTEN and their support, I was gifted a free ticket as I could not afford to go. 

 I had emailed Lyndsey Easton. She kindly welcomed me to the NGO holiday party event. (NGO) is a non-governmental organization not-for-profit organization that is independent from international governmental organizations.

I arrived to see a marvellous array of food and filling the space was the enjoyable live music of the Reuben Wier Quartet. 

As I sat down at a small table, there were many empty chairs around me. In the background was a table set up that saw Lyndsey face painting. The mood was light and full of fun as a photo booth; complete with Christmas props, was being managed by Xavier Photography. https://www.xavierjordanphotography.com/new-page-1

I was able to introduce myself to Lyndsey and presented her with a copy of Stigma Magazine, which I explained had an article I wrote about my grieving journey. She encouraged me to help myself to the delightful array of treats and made me feel welcome. 

Sitting back at my table, it was interesting as one by one, people removed a chair from my table, assuming I was by myself. While this may have been true, it reminded me of what it feels like to be an invisible. Not one to be idle for long, I struck up a wonderful conversation with several ladies. Two of these woman, have begun a non-profit organization to help refugee woman find security once arriving, instead of being forced into the sex trade. Once we spoke, I discovered we would be attending the same STOP Human Trafficking conference, next week. I look forward to re-connecting as they were kind to listen to my own struggles of being homeless. 

Before the evening ended, I met another Christian woman. She shared her own vicious cycle of living and sleeping on the various streets of Alberta, the loss of her mother and the challenges she has faced. Prior to me leaving, she asked for my contact information. 

My hope in sharing this blog post is to express my beliefs that God is working through me… so as I step forward to being the person I desire to be, I can help others along the way.

Despite my circumstances, I make the effort to seek out the heartbeat of Victoria and all she has to offer. In promoting others, it instills a sense of being able to place my words into action, while connecting me to those in need. 

I feel it is important to be socially aware of what is happening within the community and serving can come in many forms, if you have the heart to lend your support.

By TL Alton