Laurier partners with St. Leonard’s, Salvation Army to provide cold weather kits

Dec. 15, 2020

The Special Constable Service and Student Wellness Centre at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Brantford campus are partnering with St. Leonard’s Community Services and the Salvation Army to provide cold weather kits to community members experiencing homelessness in Brantford.   

“Our special constables develop good relationships within the Brantford community,” says Scott Lawson, manager of Laurier’s Special Constable Service. “After seeing some of the vulnerable population when it’s cold and dark, and during inclement weather, we wanted to find a way to help.”  

Hundreds of kits will be provided during the winter season. Each kit will contain a mix of accessories including socks, hats, gloves and heat packs, as well as non-perishable food items and personal care items. Kits will also include a card with information about local resources.   

The kits will be delivered by outreach teams and Laurier special constables at locations across the city.   

“Everyone is so isolated, especially during the pandemic,” says Jodie Lockey-Duesling, manager of Laurier’s Brantford campus Student Wellness Centre. “We wanted to do something to show people that we are here and we care.”   

Lockey-Duesling says she was happy to see how quickly people rallied around the initiative.   

“Everyone is so passionate to help,” she says. “It shows the collaboration and resiliency of the Brantford community.”  

Katie Curtis, manager of crisis services with St. Leonard’s Community Services, says the partnership between St. Leonard’s, the Salvation Army and Laurier will assist those in need during a challenging time.   

“This opportunity not only provides essential survival items, but provides an opportunity to connect and build rapport, which in turn allows for better opportunities to engage and support clients in accessing the services within the community that best fit their needs,” says Curtis.  

The Salvation Army requires donations of socks, gloves and hats during the winter months. Donations can be dropped off at the Brantford Booth Centre, 187 Dalhousie St. in Brantford. Monetary donations to St. Leonard’s Community Services help youth and families facing challenges including physical and sexual abuse, mental health challenges, addiction issues, gambling problems and unemployment.