EERSS without a home after 34 years of Service
The Edmonton Emergency Relief Services Society (EERSS) has been a staple in the community providing vital services on behalf of Albertans affected by poverty, man-made and natural disasters (fires, floods, etc.) and assisting new immigrates and refugees to Alberta for 34 years.
EERSS is a not-for-profit charitable organization with four permanent employees working as a critical component for various organizations. EERSS has been run will little private/public funding because of revenue generated from an ultra-low-cost thrift store, the generous donations of Albertans and the assistance of numerous volunteers.
Our greatest supporter has been the Government of Alberta, who has provided subsided rent up to now to the Warehouse #3 building located at 10255, 104 St. Without this support, ERRSS would have never been able to continue to supporting Albertans by supplying the basis essentials such a toiletry, clothing, blankets, etc. during the Ft. McMurray and Slave Lake fires (2016) and the Southern Alberta floods (2018).
With current change in Government as well as policies and directions, Alberta Infrastructure has decided not to continue the support and maintenance of the building and has terminated our lease effective September 30, 2021. We do not have the funding at this time to purchase or lease a new space, so we are forced to close our doors indefinitely. We will continue for a short time after September to continue our efforts to find a source of funding so that we can re-open at a different location.
We are appealing to anyone, especially Albertans, to help our organization raise funds to lease/purchase a new space for our organization. This can be done through Canada Helps and through this Go-Fund-Me campaign. Any non-financial support opportunities can be arranged with Cindi Hache, Executive Director.
