Members of the Southeast were excited to come together and connect with various government services on Wednesday, taking part in a BBQ, and children’s activities – all under one roof.
The South East Equity Coalition (SEEC) hosted its second annual “Get Your Benefits Clinic” on June 25, welcoming the community to learn more about the services available to them and access over ten different service providers.
Gay Boese, member and spokesperson of SEEC, says the benefit clinic is a popular event.
“Last year we had over 100 people and only marketed it to food bank clients.” Boese says.
This year, the event still includes access to the Southeast Helping Hands Food Bank, but also booths from Service Canada, Steinbach Community Outreach, Service Manitoba, and many more.
The event also included a community BBQ, provided by Earls Meat Market, as well as children’s activities.
Adrienne Penner, member of SEEC, hopes these events can inspire confidence and build community.
“(This event is) something that they can come to and get done what needs to be done, but also feel they've had a chance to maybe socialize and meet other people and connect.”
Due to weather conditions, the event’s activities moved inside the United Church of Steinbach, but this didn’t stop community members from coming out and accessing the services available.
Betty Wall, a Southeast local, is very thankful to attend the Benefits Clinic.
“We get to do everything in one spot, so that helps us so that we don't have to run everywhere. We get all our help in one place.” Wall says.
Boese hopes the clinic can empower and support members of the Southeast to live their best lives.
“It’s all about equity. In any way that we can enable people to have a full life, whatever that life looks like for them, that's what we're about.” Boese says.
Going forward, the South East Equity Coalition hopes to run this event every six months.