In Nelson, struggling to make ends meet is a familiar reality for many. In recognition of this, Community Connect Day will offer a warm welcome of free services, goods and information on Saturday, November 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Central School Gym, 811 Stanley Street.
The Nelson Committee on Homelessness, and dozens of service providers, health professionals and small-businesses have pooled their volunteers and resources to host a marketplace of free activities and resources for anyone struggling in the community.
The event offers everything for free and is a family-friendly event.
Over 20 different booths will provide haircuts, dental check-ups, flu shots, medical appointments and health testing, foot care and hearing screening. There will be coat and clothing booths, wellness packages and lots of door prizes.
“We have been amazed by the generosity of businesses and professionals in Nelson,” said Ann Harvey, community coordinator of Nelson Committee on Homelessness.
“The amount of local support and engagement has been incredible and it is absolutely what makes this great event possible.”
Guests can enjoy hot soup, baked goods, fresh fruit, beverages and more in the cafe area. Professionals will offer massage, physio, Reiki, acupuncture and reflexology. There will be a kid’s corner of activities, face-painting and child-minding to free parents to access the other resources available. Art activities for all ages will be offered too.
Service providers can help people search for housing, seek employment, provide advocacy, and help with government forms and problems. Information and support services will be offered for seniors, women and youth.