Surrey – Media Release from Surrey Sources Advocacy Programs:
A young refugee who spoke very little English, had no income and had not paid his rent in over a month was at risk of becoming homeless. Despite the language barrier, Sources Advocacy Program staff were able to determine his legal status and that he qualified for income assistance. We contacted the Ministry and arranged an intake interview, but the meeting was cancelled because the Ministry was not able to secure an interpreter. Days drifted by and the client became homeless. Our housing worker secured him a shelter bed while navigating housing options and discovered an ideal shared accommodation with people who spoke a similar dialect. While our advocate continued to work with the Ministry to pursue a damage deposit and rent, our housing worker worked to keep the landlord on board. The client was able to move in, and after a couple days’ delay, the cheque was finally released.
This week, communities across Metro Vancouver are recognizing Homelessness Action Week (October 9 to 15, 2016). Sources Advocacy Program assisted more than 900 people to avoid losing their home last year – 365 people were at imminent risk of homelessness while an additional 46 homeless individuals were assisted to obtain and maintain housing.
Sources Advocacy Programs is organizing the 11th Annual Homelessness Awareness March at Sources Newton Resource Centre (#102 – 13771 72A Ave., Surrey) this Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to participate. There will be speeches prior to the march and a light lunch will be provided by Sources Café & Catering following the march.
