Day 4 - Play Day #2 - Academy and Next Steps

 Hello everyone!

Here we are Tuesday July 23. And it's our 2nd day of Play Days in Thunder Bay and the First day of Next Steps Program at Northwind

Next Steps is born out of the idea of helping others who are struggling or in need of support - think of what is the "next step" you need to take. Many who are street adjacent end up in that situation not because of poor choices, but first it may stem from something at home; abuse, neglect etc. Could be financial, could be mental health... but things spiral out of control and next thing you know, you end up homeless. Add to that trauma and the mental health piece and drugs and alcohol and you can imagine how bad it can get.  But if you want to turn things around, what is the next step you can take. Northwind is here to provide a warm space and support. They have created Next Steps, where they serve Bannock and coffee/tea. They have counsellors, social workers, and staff on hand to help support these people.  Some 80-120 people could come through in a 3 hour window (10am-1pm).  Sometimes it's just for the food, but often it's a place to connect and get some help if needed - a phone call, a computer, help with paperwork etc. Perhaps it's to connect them with other Northwind resources.  If someone wants to get into Detox, they can help call - and keep calling until a bed/space opens up. Or to get into treatment centres, apply for social housing and more.  We didn't let the children on the team join this one. People could come into the centre still intoxicated, or under the influence; arguments could arise - but in general people are there wanting to talk and get some help.  We will be helping each of Tues-Thursday for the program (5-6 people from the team at a time)

Our other main activity each day will also be the Play Days.  Today we went to Academy. Same setup - do the carnival games, setup snow cones, hot dogs, prizes and games.While it started a little quieter things were very busy near the end.We went through about 100 hot dogs and 5 bags of ice. The team has been great just serving and getting out there with the people and hearing their stories.

For some it has been a heavy day (after hearing stories at Next steps).  Some are tired from all the activity of the week, early mornings and late nights.  Mosquito bites are itchy! Lack of sleep is hard. But everyone is in good spirits.  Some are feeling a bit run down and tired. Pray for team health and unity. Continue to pray for the people we meet that we may be able to help them connect with Northwind for greater help and support!

Now, there are some hijinx going on... here's a couple videos for your viewing pleasure :) This is what happens when you leave your phone around and walk out to the bathroom!!!