Volunteers in Ottawa were out on the streets Saturday searching for homeless and at risk veterans.
Armed with backpacks full of winter supplies and toiletries, civilians and ex-military members joined forces to look for soldiers as part of the national non-profit with Veterans Emergency Transition Services or VETS Canada.
"We have helped 25 to 30 people this year alone," said Jeff Murphy, the head of the VETS Canada Ottawa chapter. "Right now the Ottawa chapter is very busy. We have 11 veterans we are currently supporting."
Formed in 2010, VETS Canada said it has helped more than 1,400 homeless and at risk veterans transition from military to civilian life. The volunteer-run organization acts as a sort of intermediary, helping veterans get back on track.
Once a veteran is identified, he or she is immediately put up into a hotel, then assigned a volunteer who helps the individual find a job, community service, a rental unit and or services available through other organizations like the local legion or Veterans Affairs.
"We are here to give them a hand up," said Jim Lowther, the CEO of VETS Canada. "We will help with rent, with a mortgage, grocery cards, gas cards, anything we can think of to help them get back on their feet."
It is unknown exactly how many homeless veterans are living in Canada, but a recent estimate from the federal government suggests there are at least 2,250 veterans who visit a shelter on a regular basis.
Fabian Novo joined the Ottawa chapter for the first time Saturday. Like many volunteers, Novo is ex-military, making the search personal.
"They are my brothers and they are my sisters," he said. "If there is anything or any way I can help, it's for them. They scarified a lot."
Novo's day was a success. He found and identified a 16-year Air Force veteran outside one of Ottawa's downtown shelters.
"We helped him. We took the initial report and vetted him to make sure he was military. And there is a process starting to help him get a new wheelchair."
Regardless of whether a veteran is found on the monthly walkabouts, volunteers said every chance to hit the streets is an opportunity to connect with the community and to shed light on an important issue.
"Some days we are busier than others," said Jennifer Gribbon, a volunteer with VETS Canada. "Even if we don't find any, we aren't discouraged; at least we are raising awareness."
VETS Canada does monthly walks in cities across Canada. On Saturday, walks took place in Ottawa, Gatineau, Calgary and Halifax.
