With the bustle of activity caused by the Canada Winter Games in less than two weeks, it's important for those who call downtown home to still feel like it's their space, according to the executive director of Positive Living North.
During a presentation to city council on Monday night, Vanessa West outlined the expansion of services and activities available at Third Avenue's Fire Pit cultural drop-in centre from Feb. 14-27.
"We are playing host to the country and we know that thousands of people will be coming in to the community. Ultimately we don't want those that are already marginalized to be further displaced," said West. "If they're not in a good place to participate in the various events or entertainment events, they can be redirected to the Fire Pit where staff will be on hand to connect with them, prepare a meal, engage in activities and possibly watch a few of the televised events together."
In addition to continuing to provide a safe space for its regular clientele, the Fire Pit is also hoping to reach out to visitors.
"We do expect that people who are coming into our community will be going through our downtown core and we would like to provide a centre for them to also come in and meet with our staff and see what our programming is like," West said.
The Fire Pit will be open between 5:30 and 9 p.m. during the Games and will feature things such as performances by the Khast'an Drummers, cultural demonstrations, traditional games and food and a First Nations artisans market.
"We want to show that for the legacy of this historic event it could be highlighted that social service agencies such as the Fire Pit can also play a part in the Games," West said.
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