The Homeless Foundation for Red Deer Region has officially been established.
On Friday, Feb. 7, the society issued a media release, noting its establishment was celebrated at the inaugural member meeting at the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre
“When the Homelessness Taskforce presented their recommendations in April 2024, we committed to establishing a Homeless Foundation (Society) in Red Deer by Dec. 31 – and we are proud to say, 'Mission accomplished,'" said Lyn Radford, founding president and chair of the foundation.
Since becoming a society in November 2024, the founding board has focused on recruiting a permanent board to guide the organization into the future. This new board of directors was revealed on Feb. 7: president and chair Matt Cassidy, secretary John Young, treasurer Ryan Krutzfeldt, Jim Cramer, Jim Cramer, Doug Doran, Josh Hall, Kathy Lacey, Pat Moore, Dan Ouwehand, Dustin Quirk, Lyn Radford, Scott Robinson and Linda Yargeau.
“I am very proud to be part of such an influential team of citizens who are ready to roll up their sleeves and look for solutions to address homelessness in our community,” said Matt Cassidy, president and chair of the Homeless Foundation for Red Deer Region.
“It’s not going to be easy, and it’s not going to be void of challenges, but with a strong board to engage our community members, Indigenous partners, on-the-ground agencies, and all levels of government, I am confident we will begin to make progress together and see positive results.”
The Homeless Foundation for Red Deer Region will now turn its focus to several key objectives: securing registered charity status, engaging with community partners, collaborating with the City of Red Deer and defining strategic outcomes.
"While the road ahead is demanding, the unwavering commitment shown over the past twenty-four months demonstrates the dedication of all those involved. The Foundation is fully prepared to continue this essential work and make a lasting difference in the lives of those affected by homelessness in our community," states a media release from the society.
To access reports from the Red Deer Chamber Homelessness Taskforce, visit www.reddeerchamber.com/homeless-task-force.
