Who are we? The Kindness Connection – Upper Lake Melville Project goal is to reach out to those in need (homeless, low income, and hidden homeless) by meeting them where they are and providing for their basic needs, at the same time connecting them to community resources in the area.

How did we start? In the fall of 2014, a community resident approached Denise Cole, NLHHN’s Housing Development Coordinator for the Labrador region, that she was noticing a need for outreach to Happy Valley-Goose Bay’s homeless population. After some discussion, this idea was brought forward to local agencies who were engaged in front line service provision to those who are homeless and/or at risk of homelessness. Thus, the first outreach project team was established in November 2014. The Kindness Connection name was then developed by team members as a very fitting title for the type of outreach that they were wanting to accomplish. The main premise of the project was and continues to be meeting individuals in need ‘where they are’, providing basic need supplies, and building relationships to bridge gaps to connect people to services/supports.

Our Partners The partners presently involved in the Kindness Connection project team are: Nunatsiavut Government The Salvation Army RCMP Mokami Status of Women Council Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation (Home & Community Care) Northern Cross Church

What do we do? On the first Saturday of each month, the Outreach Team provides and refills backpacks and other essential supplies, while The Salvation Army supplies food and beverages, in at least three areas of Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

Location

Our Friends We want to create a relationship with those we service. We want to create a safe space.

Backpack items Sunglasses Socks Refillable Water Bottle   Refill Kits: Brown bag lunch Hygiene kit Dental kit Bottle of water Candle/Matches First Aid Kit Socks (1 pair) Hot pockets x 2 (winter) Mosquito coil (summer) Other items Seasonal items – Fall/Winter Gloves/Mitts Scarf Toque Seasonal items – Spring/Summer Ball hat Female Hygiene Kit Service Cards/Warming Places Magazines/Books Antibiotic Ointment Bug Spray Blankets/Sleeping Bags/Tarps Clothing Vouchers Kid’s items/backpacks Sunglasses Socks Refillable Water Bottle Bottle of Water Garbage bag Toilet Paper (or tissues in hygiene kit) Sewing Kit Reflective Armband/Keychain Flashlight (ensure working batteries) Notebook & Pen/Pencil/Sharpener Candle Kit First Aid Kit Dental Kit General Hygiene Kit Brown Bag Lunch Hot Pockets (2) (winter) Mosquito Coil kit (summer) Mini luggage tag

Statistics 2017 Averages of friends served Total Individuals – 20 Male – 7 Female – 13 Homeless -7 Hidden Homeless – 2 Housed - 11

Challenges Lack of affordable housing Transportation Lack of supports (addictions & mental health) Weather/Climate (frostbite, hypothermia, dehydration, sunburn, fly bites)

The Future Larger emergency shelter More housing options More supports for addictions & mental health

Current Change Starting in the month of April, the Kindness Connection will operate solely from the Housing Hub. All “friends” (Clients) will be able to pick up items needed at the shelter on Thursdays from 9 am-4 pm.

Thank You!