A group of practical nursing students at North West Regional College reached out to the homeless people in the Battlefords as part of their class assignment Sept. 24.
The students were assigned to choose a vulnerable population in the community and observe and collaborate with local agencies in addressing the needs of the individuals belonging to the vulnerable people. They held a clothing drive for the homeless and gathered 13 heaping tables full of jackets, clothing, footwear and children's toys in three short days.
When delivering the gifts to the Battlefords Indian Métis Friendship Centre, the students had the chance to talk with some of these vulnerable people one on one and put a name to their faces.
"We wanted to see if they would open up to us at all about what life is like through their eyes and if they had any of their own concerns or suggestions on what could better the homeless situation," says Carmen Koehl, practical nursing student.
In hopes of gaining knowledge and awareness on the serious matter, Jessica Heysteck, said, "Our goal was to take what we learned and share it with others in order to advocate for these individuals that may not have as much of an opportunity to use their voice. We really want to decrease fear and begin to foster an environment of empowerment for all members of this community, including our homeless, because we all matter."
Shannon Iverson, practical nursing program said, "This is a great example of how our college can collaborate with various key sectors in our community for the greater good."
