Some of the individuals in our community cannot afford to purchase a bus pass. Here at The Mustard Seed’s Mosaic Centre (Edmonton), we have a program called PATH, where we supply free bus passes to those experiencing homelessness and poverty.
Last March as I was processing bus passes, a young man named Keifer came in and placed his previous month’s pass down on the table along with several other cards. Curiously wondering what the other cards were, Keifer proudly told me he obtained four certifications – Fall Prevention, Confined Spaces, Forklift and WHIMIS – all because we were able to provide him with a bus pass. He was also currently training for his First Aid and ATV, and was planning to obtain three additional certifications with NorQuest College.
He was so proud of his accomplishments, as was I. The Mosaic Centre started the PATH program to support participants as they make improvements in their lives, and that is exactly what this individual was doing. Just observing his excitement was contagious.
I had the opportunity to see the program used to better this young man’s life, and it made me realize the positive impact the program is making.
It put a smile on my face for the rest of the day!
