United Way Perth-Huron has funded a new air conditioning unit at the Stratford Connection Centre, improving comfort and safety for vulnerable individuals accessing the Centre and supporting the staff and volunteers who serve them every day. United Way also funds the Centre’s ongoing operating costs, helping keep this vital community resource available to those who need it most.
Operated by the Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth, the Stratford Connection Centre provides a welcoming place where individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness can access basic needs, connect with support services, and build relationships that can lead to improved health, stability and housing.
While the need for air conditioning may not be immediately obvious to some, conditions inside the Centre during periods of extreme heat could become extraordinarily difficult.
“When temperatures climb outside, the Centre fills with people looking for relief from the heat,” said United Way CEO, Ryan Erb. “Without air conditioning, the space would become hot, humid and uncomfortable. The air would feel heavy and stagnant, making it more difficult for people to rest, connect with supports and focus on their next steps. For individuals spending much of their day outdoors, a cool and welcoming indoor space can make a tremendous difference.”
The lack of cooling also created challenges for the dedicated CMHA staff who work daily to support individuals facing complex housing, health and mental health concerns.
“The Stratford Connection Centre exists to provide dignity, connection and hope,” said Tanya Hefkey, CMHA. “When someone walks through the doors, they should find a welcoming place where they can catch their breath, cool down, have a conversation and access the help they need. Air conditioning helps us provide that environment.”
Connection Centres were established to fill a gap in local communities by creating safe, welcoming spaces where people can access basic supports while building trusting relationships with service providers. Those relationships often become the first step toward accessing housing, health care, identification, income supports, mental health services, addiction treatment and other community resources.
United Way funded the installation of the new air conditioning unit as part of its ongoing commitment to ensuring vulnerable residents have access to safe, effective and compassionate supports. Because the Stratford Connection Centre operates out of an older church building, bringing air conditioning into the space was more complex than a standard installation, adding significantly to the overall project cost.
Although the unit has already been installed, community members who would like to help offset the cost of the project or contribute to the ongoing operation of the Stratford Connection Centre are encouraged to donate through United Way.
“Community support is what makes services like the Connection Centre possible,” added Erb. “Donations help ensure people facing some of life’s most difficult circumstances have a place to turn. Whether it’s a hot summer day, a cold winter morning or any day in between, the Connection Centre continues to be a critical point of connection for people in our community.”
Donations supporting the Stratford Connection Centre can be made HERE. Under “Please direct my donation to,” select Stratford Connection Centre.