The Burnaby Task Force on Homelessness is asking the public to help local citizens sleeping outdoors.
"Homelessness steals from the potential of our Burnaby community by creating barriers for those living without a home," said task force member Wanda Mulholland. "It results in poor health, increased mortality rates and prevents opportunities for all Burnaby citizens to feel included in the community."
Homelessness Action Week is Oct. 10 to 16, and the local task force is planning a special event on Thursday, Oct. 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Southside Community Church, at 7135 Walker Ave.
The free event helps the homeless get connected with services.
The day includes a pancake breakfast, a blood pressure clinic, a foot-care clinic, haircuts, free clothing, toiletry items, a free barbecue lunch, games and more.
But the task force is also looking for donations of travel-size shampoo, conditioner, soap and toothpaste, razors, tampons, sanitary pads, toothbrushes, men's winter sports socks, men's underwear, warm winter clothes and one-zone transit tickets. To donate, call 604-522-9669, ext. 317.
For more information, visit www. burnabyhomelesstaskforce.org.
