Calgary homeless access haircuts, legal advice at fair

An annual event brought about 1,000 homeless people to Calgary city hall for free clothes, dental advice and counselling.

"I'm just here to get a free haircut and some socks," said Andrew, who declined to give his last name. He said he's been homeless and in and out of prison for the last decade. "Some people fall through the cracks of society and get forgotten about."

Project Homeless Connect began 13 years ago as a one-stop visit for homeless people who may not know how to track down the services they need.

"Homeless folks are really challenged to access services, and so it's not like the services aren't there it's just harder to find them," said Tim Richter, president of the Calgary Homeless Foundation, which organized the event called Project Homeless Connect.

Volunteer hairstylist Megan Ebel took her time givingAndrew a new hairstyle.

"Why not help out societyhelp out anybody you can," she said.

Forty-five agencies were at the fair offering free clothing including winter comfort kits with mitts, socks and toques and lunches.

Homeless peoplecould also access advice on legal issues, housing options, addictions counselling andmental health. Doctors and dentists also lent their services at the event.