Cardboard home raises awareness
The realities and misconceptions about homelessness in Niagara are on display at Seaway Mall.
Leading up to the annual No Fixed Address fundraiser, YWCA of Niagara was in Welland this weekend with its mobile Cardboard House, an interactive exhibit designed to break down stereotypes about the growing local problem.
“It’s an issue right across the region — and one of the biggest issues is the availability of affordable housing,” said YWCA executive director Elizabeth Zimmermann on Saturday, also pointing out that the waiting list with Niagara Regional Housing can be as long as 13 years for some families in need.
In its seventh year, No Fixed Address is the organization’s largest fundraiser and has brought in $300,000 for various programs across Niagara since 2012.
The event takes place over a span of 24 hours with participants sleeping in the cars for the night. This year’s edition will take place June 8 to 9 at the General Motors plant on Glendale Avenue in St. Catharines.
YWCA of Niagara is the region’s largest provider of emergency shelter.
People who register for the overnight fundraiser will create teams and collect sponsorships from friends and family and take part in an event that gives a firsthand, real-life experience of what it’s like to be without a home.
The Cardboard House will make a few more stops at Niagara locations leading up to the major fundraiser next month. For more details visit www.nfaniagara.com.