The road to homelessness and poverty is not uniform: some are born with the legacy of the residential school system; others experience trauma without adequate services to support them; and still, others live with physical and mental health challenges. Regardless of their route, those experiencing homelessness face unimaginable barriers once they enter a cycle of poverty.
Becoming a Better Ally: A Conversation with Boyle Street Community Services
Last month, we had the privilege of talking to Boyle Street Community Services. Shawna Harline, Director of Operations at Robertson, sat down with Elliott Tanti, Senior Manager of Communications and Engagement at Boyle Street Community Services to discuss their unique approach to addressing chronic homelessness in the greater Edmonton area. Discussion topics included how we can break down the stigma surrounding individuals experiencing homelessness to become better allies, Boyle Street’s programs, services, #BuildWithBoyle campaign and much more!
Since its inception in 1971, Boyle Street has grown to over 450 staff members and 40 programs and services. Each year, Boyle Street Community Services serves over 12,000 people across nine locations who are at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness. At the heart of their work is a drive to build relationships with those they serve — to provide a place where the stories of individuals experiencing homelessness can be heard with compassion and care so that they can live fulfilling lives.
If you missed the conversation, you can check it out on our Instagram or view it below:
How you can help?
Robertson is proud to be donating $3,000 to Boyle Street to support their mission to eradicate chronic homelessness in the Edmonton area and the important work they do. We encourage you to discover how you can support the amazing work Boyle Street does by visiting boylestreet.org/getinvolved.
