Darren Pelachaty’s work slows down during these cold months, so he has a little more time on his hands and he uses this time to support our vulnerable population in Edmonton.
In under 36 hours, he raised just under $5000.00 and delivered much needed supplies to Edmontons housless population. Rellik chats whith him in studio about this amazing effort:
If you want to donate to this cause you can drop off supplies at SOHO on Jasper Avenue :
11454 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5K 0M1
Closes 2 a.m.
Phone: (780) 483-7646
Email transfers can be sent to :
Darren.settingsun@live.com
Darren gives a few tips those who want to help out:
For those that have a little time and some things to donate, I know it can seem intimidating, but if you’re interested in getting out on your own and have warm goods, here are some tips:
Travel in a pair, or maybe more. Once you get attention, you maybe have 5 or 6 come to you in succession. More helping hands is better.
The downtown core between Jasper – 111ave and 95st- 101 st is the central hotspot. Drive those streets and keep your eyes open for any wanderers. Pull over with your blinkers on and just simply ask ‘are you cold?’ ‘Do you need _____?’ (Whatever you’re offering).
I don’t normally hit the Whyte Ave area because I’ve got enough DT. They desperately need help over there too, mostly near the Neighbour Center (81 Ave) near the A&W and Grindstone .
Take note of what they’re wearing. Often, they don’t mention their feet because they don’t expect anyone will offer them boots. Ask questions.
Help them put things on properly. I’ll pull their hood down and remove a toque to get a balaclava on first, then help them layer back up. They are literally too cold to even dress themselves, let alone be dangerous. I find this work to be very low risk. They’re extremely grateful for the care.
Take a few moments to keep assessing. Maybe they need more than just gloves and a toque. Could they use a better jacket as well?
Insist they put on what you’re giving right there. If it makes them warm, it will do two things: 1) less chance of it becoming currency
2) More likely to stay dry, which is rule #1 of staying warm. Snowy jackets and blankets become garbage very quickly.
No amount of help is too little. If you can even get out for a half hour with hot chocolate or McD’s cheeseburgers.
Google the shelters in your area. If you’re not successful in finding takers for everything you have, drop them off. The places not immediately central have a tough time getting donations because they’re lesser known. But they are there and it can save you some travel.
I’m happy to bring people along with me if you want some support and coaching for your first time out. Hit me up!
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