For the past three weeks, Georgian College social service worker students Michelle White, Crystal Ferguson and David Watt have been busy brainstorming how to help the homeless population in Barrie and Orillia.
With guidance from the Changemaker Club on campus, they launched Beneath the Blanket, an initiative to help the homeless.
Anyone can help support their initiative by donating new and gently used blankets, sleeping bags and warm clothing.
“This is the just the beginning,” says Crystal.
“We are contacting organizations in Barrie and Orillia so that we can help them distribute these items where they are needed. In the future, we are looking to expand this initiative in order to build community capacity to address the systemic issues that cause homelessness in the first place.”
To date, the group has handed out hundreds of flyers, spoken to countless individuals on and off campus, and are really looking to engage with organizations in the community in order to fulfill their mission.
Beneath the Blanket collects donations of items that are geared toward helping people in need stay warm, then distributes them to local shelters or directly to those in need.
The idea came from an encounter Ferguson had with a man who identified himself as homeless. He expressed to her the need for things like warm socks since his feet often would freeze in the winter. Ferguson posted about the experience on social media and White reached out.
“The project is helping the homeless, as well as doing what we can for anyone that is less fortunate and going through tough times,” said White.
They are seeking donations of sleeping bags, pillows, blankets, coats, warm socks, hats and a variety of other items. For a full list, visit Beneath the Blanket on Facebook.
“The Beneath the Blanket project is the beginning of something that could be a major catalyst for change in our community,” says Jennifer Raftis, Changemaker Club president.
“It is starting small, but project leads Michelle, Crystal and David have big plans for the future.”
For more information on the Beneath the Blanket initiative, email [email protected].
Donations may be dropped off at the Orillia Campus, Room B200.
