CANON CITY – Homeless advocates in Canon City are pushing for more awareness on the issue of homelessness around the community. There is an event this coming Saturday to raise money, but just as important, to educate.
Like many communities, the number of people in Canon City facing housing crisis is on the rise. Each month close to 1,500 people turn to Loaves and Fishes Ministry in Canon City for basic food needs. The center’s kitchen is also preparing more meals. “We used to serve maybe 50 to 60 meals a day, now we’re serving 150 meals a day,” said Loaves and Fishes, Executive Director, Deedee Clement.
The crisis shelter has 17 beds; the number of people needing a bed last night was over 25. A new apartment building built specifically for homeless needs was completed earlier this year. It filled within 72 hours and there is a wait list.
Programs need support and at the same time homeless advocates want the community to understand more about this issue. “For the most part they’re normal folks who have just come on hard times,” said Clement. Perceptions are often different than reality. This Saturday’s Homeless Awareness Walk takes participants out on trails used by homeless individuals. Along the path, volunteer actors will share true stories of local people who experienced homelessness. “People will get a better picture of what homelessness is and hear the stories, and change that mindset they may have about someone who is experiencing homelessness.”
The event is Saturday November 3rd starting at the Loaves and Fishes building in Canon City. It runs from 9:00 a.m. to noon. There is no charge but a $25 donation is encouraged.
