Hope was the theme at a candlelight vigil in Kitchener for the homeless

Hope was the theme of a candlelight vigil in Kitchener last night to fight for those who are living with homelessness, and to remember those who have died.

The “Vigil for our Homeless” was held at Vogelsang Green downtown, Wednesday evening.

It was organized by survivor, Suzi Gersoy, who says, “I believe that homelessness does not have to be a life sentence. I’m living proof that people can and do recover from homelessness and addiction.”

Jennifer Grigg, a housing support worker at House of Friendship, who says we have to hold hope for those living on the streets when they can’t hold it for themselves.

She says the community is suffering with winter approaching, and, “while people are waiting for housing they are dying. These folks are our neighbours, our friends, our family members, and we as a community have the responsibility to support them and continue to advocate for their rights.”

Joe Mancini, co-founder of The Working Centre, celebrated the 230 shelter beds that now operate 24/7, but didn’t exist before 2019.

He says the community needs another 200 such beds.

The official charity connected to the “Vigil for our Homeless” is Toasty Toes, who provide warm dry socks for those living on the street.

Their founder, Sharon Gilroy-Dreher, says this year they’ve only raised half the money they did last year, and all donations are most appreciated.

CityNews 570’s Mike Farwell was the MC for the vigil.