The Calgary Drop-In Centre's front door. (Gustavo Fornez, CMRU.ca)
Jacob Whitford-Bender is one of the thousands of volunteers that the Drop-In shelter has enlisted to help shelter and feed the homeless population of Calgary.
Jacob is a prime example of one of many selfless volunteers that help keep the place afloat, especially since the pandemic has started.
COVID-19 changed how volunteers operate at the Drop-In shelter, pushing them from specific skill sets to becoming jacks of all trades, needing to do anything in the moment to support their clients and their needs, whether it be cleaning, cooking, or a variety of other tasks.
“There’s what you’re doing, and then there’s what it’s doing for someone else. If you want to maximize what you’re doing, then you have to tailor it to a specific need. Some people are more needful than others, like the homeless.”
The drop-in offers a variety of services, but mainly offers the less fortunate connections in order to find stable and permanent housing.
Other services/gifts they offer are:
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Monetary Support
- Furniture
- Meals
- Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation
Since 2017, the Calgary Drop-In has housed over 1000 people in need, helping them get their life back on track, and exit homelessness. But as Jacob explains, even a simple meal is enough for some.
“Even just serving food, being there as someone who doesn’t work there, is very humanizing for them.”
Since its founding, the Drop-In has risen to be named one of Calgary’s top 5 Impact Charities by Charity Intelligence Canada.If you are able, please donate or volunteer, especially during the winter months. Your contribution may save a life, or just get one back on track.
Comments