MORE than 100 people marched through the heart of Mount Gambier on Friday to highlight homelessness in the community.
The Pride in Your Stride event – which coincided with Homelessness Week – saw participants walk from Vanisttart Park to the ac.care Community Centre in Ferrers Street, shining a light on the “hidden” issue.
Ruby’s and Uniting Communities therapeutic youth coordinator Sharon Gray said the walk was symbolic of those facing homelessness.
“Pride in your Stride symbolises the dilemma people experiencing homelessness can face on a day-to-day basis,” she said.
“They may have to wake up and move from where they are to look for food and shelter each day.
“We want to let them know they are not alone on this walk and we are walking with them.”
In addition to the walk, community members were encouraged to donate shoes which will be gifted to those facing homelessness.
Ms Gray hoped the event encouraged the community to discuss homelessness.
“It is about raising the conversation and questions surrounding homelessness,” she said.
“We may one day see more affordable housing, more support and grow networks in the community of people willing to talk about this issue.”
The march finished with a barbecue hosted by the Mount Gambier Rapid Response Team.
Members of the knitting group Twisted Threads also donated beanies and scarves to the organisation on the day.
