The generosity of Duchess Park school's students will add some new life to the city's only after-hours drop-in centre for those on the street.
The facility is run by the Metis association, and opened on Nov. 17. It only has the funds to be open until Feb. 27 unless more cash can be found. DPSS student Margaret Keery decided to do something to help.
"I heard there was a need and wanted to help them out," said Keery, in Grade 12. She held a coin drive and collected $205.
"They called to ask us if they could do a coin drive, and of course we were very grateful, it was a wonderful gesture from these young people," said Patrick Pocha, a Metis association volunteer and the main thrust behind the centre, which doesn't open until the other shelters in the city close their doors. Anyone who can't get a spot at a shelter has few other options on cold nights.
"Our stats are actually down from last year, and I think that is because the shelters got extra funding for more beds this year. I'm praying that that is the reason," Pocha said. "But we are seeing new people, people I have never seen before, the need is very great for nighttime safety for these people."
The centre is located in the Bladerunners building behind The Keg. It is not a place for sleeping, but anyone can drop in to warm up, watch a movie, play a board game, have a cup of coffee, and spend time until morning.
Pocha said the centre was also gathering footwear and socks, especially for men, to send the most desperate ones on their way with some better boots and shoes.
The student contribution is not the only donation the centre has gotten this year. The Sophie Thomas Foundation donated $1,000, a raffle is being held, and on Monday afternoon the folks from the Prince George Nechako Aboriginal Employment and Training Association will join the Metis association's volunteers and the drop-in centre's staff to present a Christmas dinner party for the clients.
If more money can be gathered, said Pocha, the centre can stay open longer.
"It still gets really cold after Feb. 27," he said.
An informational website has been set up (www.afterhoursdropincentre.org). For information or to offer help of any kind call Pocha at 250-561-9484.
