are invited to participate in an event designed to open doors to new ideas, build alliances and move the community to take action to end homelessness.

This is a unique opportunity, bringing together people from various perspectives who share a vision to end homelessness.  The South Okanagan Homelessness Project will present an educational forum on Friday September 16, 2005 at 9:30 to 3:30 at the Osoyoos Baptist Church 8506 92 Avenue, Osoyoos British Columbia. 

The South Okanagan Homelessness Project is facilitating community conversations to discuss and educate one another about the different needs and concerns of neighbourhoods, businesses, and the communities in order to generate community based solutions that support all members of the community. 

Many people cannot easily find affordable places to live. Those who need assistance in everyday living often go without the supports they need to ensure health, safety and quality of life. There is a need to seek solutions to the growing problems of access to affordable and appropriate housing and to reducing the risks of homelessness experienced by many individuals and families in our community.

Forum Design:

Bring an open mind and your questions, interests and challenges to work on with others.  Leave with action steps for new coalitions and partnerships, and a participant contact list for those who wish to contribute.

Why attend this event???

• This is a unique opportunity, bringing together people from various perspectives who share a vision to end homelessness. 
• Every community is affected by homelessness.
• It will be fun.

Objectives

The objectives of the plan, which are based on the identified community priorities, are intended to address current and future needs in South Okanagan. The objectives are to:

• Increase the ability of the community to meet the immediate needs of people who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness and decrease the hardships they face.
• Increase the supply, variety and accessibility of affordable housing for the people of this area.
• Enhance supports for special needs, increase efforts to prevent homelessness and build the community's capacity to respond to homelessness.  

Envision an inclusive community that takes responsibility for ending homelessness by ensuring that everyone has the right and support to access and sustain housing.

Business *Healthcare *Developers *Media *Realtors

Social Services *Social Workers *Councilors *Trainers

A Community Forum To End Homelessness in The South Okanagan

Community *Social Groups *Faith Based Orgs. * Schools *Centres

Government *Members of Parliament *Town Council *Law Enforcement