Sidewalks to Door Locks
Homelessness is not a standalone issue. It has complex, intersectional roots and affects every facet of an individual’s life; it is the situation an individual desperately tries to escape and the obstacle that makes strides toward progress nearly impossible.
It is crucial that we do everything we can to break that cycle.
The Calgary Homeless Foundation (CHF) has been a cornerstone of the homeless-serving sector since its founding in 1998. As an umbrella organization, the CHF coordinates programs and policies and distributes grants to organizations on the frontlines of the fight against homelessness.
The foundation has helped thousands of individuals find a place to call home. In just over two decades the CHF has decreased homelessness by 35% in the city – in 2021 alone, they granted $75.9 million to 35 agencies.
Sidewalks to Door Locks is the latest of many exciting initiatives by the CHF. The event recognizes frontline organizations, raises awareness about homelessness and raises funds for the mission. Pieridae is honoured to have been the Beacon Sponsor for the inaugural Sidewalks to Door Locks event this year, as one of many donor organizations that are eager to invest in their community.
A highlight of the evening was the Art Smith Awards presentation where Pieridae CEO Alfred Sorenson presented the Front-Line Employee award to Jodie Aebly from the SHARP foundation and the Front-Line Project award to Neoma Project by the HomeSpace Society and Inn From The Cold. The third award for Leadership went to Kathy Christiansen of the Calgary Alpha House.
All recipients and nominees have demonstrated exceptional support and dedication to individuals experiencing Homelessness in Calgary – their hard work brings hope to Calgary’s most vulnerable.