Shelter Volunteer Fights Stigma Around Homelessness With Hashtag Campaign

Ottawa, Canada, March 3, 2017 (Newswire.com) - Nobody ever thinks they will become homeless, but the truth is it can happen to anyone. This is something Kelly Ann Moulds, a volunteer at a homeless shelter in Ottawa, Canada, has come to realize. And she wants to do something about it.

The #ICouldHaveBeenHomeless challenge is a grassroots initiative Kelly Ann thought of when she realized that she could have ended up in a shelter herself if it weren’t for the support of family and friends. The purpose of the challenge is to raise awareness around homelessness and end the stigma around those who experience homelessness in the first place.

"It is important to me that (the homeless) are seen for who they are as individuals, as opposed to the stereotypical idea people tend to have of the 'type' of person who experiences homelessness."

Kelly Ann Moulds, Shelter Volunteer

She also hopes this challenge will encourage people to donate to a local shelter and services that support people in need.

“Through my time volunteering at an Ottawa homeless shelter, I've met some incredible people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences,” said Moulds. “It is important to me that they are seen for who they are as individuals, as opposed to the stereotypical idea people tend to have of the 'type' of person who experiences homelessness.”

The challenge is simple. Use #ICouldHaveBeenHomeless to share your story on social media about how you could have been homeless yourself, were it not for the support you received from others. Then, challenge your friends to do the same.

“As well as spreading awareness and ending stigma, I also hope that this challenges persuades people to see the value in financially supporting organizations helping people in need,” said Moulds of how the challenge will help those looking for support.

“There are some life-changing services that support people when they need it most.”

To learn more about the challenge and read others’ stories, visit www.ICouldHaveBeenHomeless.com​.

Source: #ICouldHaveBeenHomeless challenge