Today I visited Helping Hands Street Mission (Helping Hands Street Mission) on Barton Street and spent time connecting with staff, volunteers, and new friends.
There are no photos of our conversations. We wanted to be fully present in the moment and to respect the dignity and privacy of the people who use the Mission’s services. Not every meaningful interaction needs to become visual content.
Helping Hands offers far more than practical support. Through its welcoming café, clothing program, social gatherings, Bible studies, worship, community events, and Project Hope, it creates space for friendship, belonging, rest, and hope.
I am grateful to former Executive Director Alice Plug-Buist for her leadership, and to current Executive Director Laura Hanna for continuing this important work. Thank you to Laura, Alice, the staff, volunteers, and everyone who welcomed us today. I really enjoyed speaking and connecting with Niraj, Bob, Julie, Arie, Kristina, E.J., Tina, Divine, Jessica, and others.
The mission of Helping Hands closely reflects the values at the heart of my campaign for Mayor of the City of Hamilton: seeing the strengths, gifts, and dignity of every person.
No one should be reduced to a housing status, diagnosis, crisis, or case file. Every person is made in the image of God, has inherent worth, and has something meaningful to contribute to our city.
A stronger Hamilton will be built by walking alongside one another with respect, compassion, practical support, and genuine friendship. That is what I want to promote as Mayor.