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Barrie firefighter recognized for work with homeless in Midland

As a Christian man, Denis Laurin felt he had to answer his call to duty and help the homeless through his role with the Salvation Army
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Denis Laurin, who is a full-time firefighter and outreach worker with the Salvation Army, was recently recognized with an award of merit. He is pictured here with Mayor Stewart Strathearn. Supplied photo.

Denis Laurin doesn't like to draw attention himself.

But the Midland resident was recently in the spotlight after he received the town's award of merit, along with two other residents.

"It was nice to receive it," he said. "The acknowledgement shows that they do appreciate."

For the last decade, Laurin has been working as an outreach worker for the Salvation Army. The program was part of the Street Outreach Program through the Town of Midland and the County of Simcoe.

Since its inception, the program has evolved to one around homelessness and is now organized through the Salvation Army. A bio released by the town says that Laurin is known for taking his part-time position far beyond the 26 hours per week to making himself available to those in need 24/7.

"He is ‘the go-to guy’ for any matter that affects the homeless and disadvantaged," said Mayor Stewart Strathearn, announcing the award at a recent council meeting.

In addition to this commitment, Laurin has also been a firefighter for 26 years and currently works full-time for the City of Barrie. 

It was his work in the emergency services field, he says, that made the cause of homelessness so important to him.

"(It was) just dealing with people constantly and realizing nobody was effectively addressing why we had to deal with marginalized populations and why they were feeling marginalized," said Laurin.

Before he became a Salvation Army employee, he started out helping his wife at the non-profit volunteering at its food bank and client gardening program.

"I enjoy the opportunity to meet with people," said Laurin. "It gives me an opportunity to get to know them and hear about their struggles and where things may have gone off track.

"We don't promise we can solve their problems," he added. "We ask them where they want to go next in their journey and then help them along."

Laurin said his work has helped him become more understanding and accepting.

"You're constantly working on your patience, understanding, and keeping an open mind," he said. "We're all susceptible. I've met people in life that are more fortunate than I am and some less fortunate. They're just trying to journey back. We're just walking alongside them."

As well, Laurin said, he has learned to be more observant, compassionate and to constantly be aware of his abundant blessings. He added he has learned to treat people the way he would like to be treated: with respect and dignity. 

"Denis continues to be involved in the community availing his time to make Midland and the surrounding community a better place for all residents," said Strathearn. "He is a true champion and inspiration."