A fundraiser is taking place next week at The Bookshelf Cinema to raise money for the Guelph Food Bank and spark conversation about homelessness, poverty and food insecurity in the community.
Dubbed “In Our Backyard: A Night of Awareness & Action,” the fundraiser will take place on Jan. 17, and will include an exclusive film premiere of Anna Kaljas: The Untold Story.
The documentary by Dwight Storring delves into the life of Anna Kaljas, who cared for people struggling with substance abuse, troubled youth, the mentally ill and unhoused people, creating a shelter for those in need when she arrived in Canada in 1951.
The film will set the stage for a panel discussion involving key social service supporters who have seen a rise in need due to higher costs of living, lack of income and lack of shelter.
MPP Mike Schreiner will serve as a guest speaker to further discuss the homeless and housing crisis in Guelph.
The aim of the event is to raise funds for the Guelph Food Bank while bringing the community together for a night of reflection and awareness, and to address the stresses put on local social programs, fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
The event will be catered by Miijidas Café + Bistro before the film premiere. Guests will also have a chance to engage in a Q&A with the Storring and a member of the community who was homeless for six years.
The fundraiser kicks off at 6 p.m. and runs until 9 p.m. Tickets are $35 and include catering. All proceeds will directly benefit the Guelph Food Bank. Get tickets or learn more here.