There’s been a lot of buzz about the Homeless March in Brantford the past few days, and I’m glad to report that it was a success on many levels.   

New friends were made as the group mingled, accurate information was shared that reduced confusion, and everyone involved is genuinely concerned about how they can help the homeless.

Leaving the Welcome In on West Street.

They met at The Welcome In on West Street and walked down Clarence towards City Hall holding a variety of signs to represent homeless people.  Twelve people marched today, with an additional seven waiting at City Hall for a total of nineteen concerned citizens. It was a lovely surprise to see Councilor Brian Van Tilborg holding the door wide open to City Hall for everyone to enter.

Deb Steedman of Helping Hands Helping Homeless in Brantford and surrounding areas.

Deb Steedman organized this walk because she wanted answers why the Welcome In is closing.  Joshua Wall, our newly elected Councilor member, successfully redirected the focus of the group by communicating publicly accessible information in a constructive way, and suggested they focus on solutions for the homeless.  Due to Wall’s information, Steedman had a change of heart and contemplated cancelling.  She decided to go ahead after some thought.

Wellington Street

Once inside City Hall the group brainstormed about how they could help the homeless, and shared each others contact information.

A few hours later Steedman wrote, “something is still not right.” on her FaceBook page.