YXE Connects is back to provide free services
Back for another year and ready to break down barriers to accessibility, YXE Connects will bring together service providers from around the city to help Saskatoon’s vulnerable citizens get whatever help they might need — from haircuts to health services.
The event, scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday at White Buffalo Youth Lodge and City Centre Church, offers nearly 100 different services and gives people who attend the chance to create connections with the service providers, making it easier for them to reach out when they may require help.
Since its inaugural event in 2015, YXE Connects has provided services to more than 2,500 people. This year’s event is expected to draw 1,000 more, event coordinator Justin Fisher said.
“We’re trying hard to serve vulnerable individuals and families that require supports on housing, employment, legal support and all of these things,” he said.
“A couple years ago I remember one woman coming up to me and explaining that coming to YXE Connects that day had saved her three weeks worth of bus trips around the city and a whole lot of hardship and pain.”
Fisher adds that after attendees have finished running all their errands they can sit, chat, relax and enjoy a free barbecue lunch.
This year, free bus service to the event will be available from pickup points around the city.
Service begins at 9:30 a.m. from the Shaw Centre and Centre Mall with additional stops along the way at Confederation Mall, W.P. Bate Community School, Frances Morrison Library, Forest Grove School, Lawson Civic Centre and AIDS Saskatoon — watch for the yellow Hertz school bus.