Circle of Friends supports men, women and families as they transition from homelessness and shelter-living back into the K-W community. It is a program of Mennonite Central Committee Ontario that is offered in partnership with YWCA Kitchener-Waterloo and Mary's Place.
Remembering the homeless among us
It is a cold, dark windy winter night. At -25 degrees Celsius you shiver as you walk outside. You take comfort knowing that in a short time you will be warm and embraced in the comfort of your home. Unfortunately, for many men and women in the Kitchener-Waterloo area living in poverty and homelessness, this is not the reality.
Linda, a Circle of Friends participant, will never forget the first time she became homeless. She was frightened, cold and alone. Since then Linda has joined Circle of Friends which has dramatically alleviated the isolation she felt. With the support of her Circle, she has maintained stable housing for the last several years and has learned to trust again, which has given her much strength.
We are mindful of those experiencing homelessness, especially at this time of year, and we are actively working to expand our work to reach more men and women in our community. With the help of volunteers, Circle of Friends can move more individuals out of isolation into community.
Learn how you can volunteer today here.