Off topic: I am always amazed by space, and the two trillion galaxies in the "known universe". And for those who think there is no intelligent life out there, who quote the Fermi Paradox, well, you need to watch this short clip. www.youtube.com/shorts/oeh3J...

1/ Calls come in. Utilities cut off. Needs $180. Mom has a baby. She's afraid to call Emergency Social Services. She finds them Rude, always hang up on her, and patronizing, as if she hasn't been a mom worthy of any help. #abpoli

Helping a man who had his leg amputated from diabetes and the cold, go to the pharmacy and then sit with him until his shelter opens the doors for the night.

Up to a year ago, when a vulnerable person called Emergency Social Services and was denied support for any reason, it was possible to immediately appeal that decision to a supervisor. That is no longer an option.

1/ Working with a father whose child has been apprehended by children services at the hospital. He was with his biological mother during pregnancy and at birth. He states CFS has ignored his request for access and court dates. He has volunteered for a paternity test.

If you want to make a real difference, donate directly to your local Food Bank. When you buy food at a grocery store to place in a donation bin, you’re paying full retail prices. Food Banks don't.

Want to support a family this xmas. Just see pinned posts and upon donation just put "one of Mark's families."

Taking a young mom xmas shopping as she just had her two children returned from wacko ex boyfriend who wouldn't allow visits and ignored court orders. Mom has little means so I'm helping out with this as well.

1/5 Our province needs to do far more to address child sexual exploitation. On paper, the policies sound good, but in reality the problem is widespread and severely under-resourced.

If by chance you get a new cell phone this holiday season. Perhaps you could wipe it and donate it to me so I can pass it on to a vulnerable person.

It is a very busy yet very meaningful time of year, and I really enjoy meeting so many families and dropping off food parcels and small gifts for a few families who have no means.

Our medical professionals use science, facts, and proven best practices. Danielle Smith sticks her finger in her mouth and guesses which way the wind is blowing. She trumps ideology over science, and people will die because of this practice--In my personal opinion. #abpoli www.cbc.ca/news/canada/...

The #Yeg Remand Centre is a “Super Max” prison. About 90% held there are legally presumed innocent, yet it’s the harshest facility, with no real programming or family contact. I’ve seen people unravel there, then be released downtown at night with only a bus ticket.

Stopped by a young mom's apartment and dropped off over-the-counter medication and healthy food. Mom has diabetes, as does her son. That's some of my Sunday.

This is an emotional time of year. Families with little or no means often spend what they have so their kids have something for the season. That compassion means they have no food, not enough for rent, utilities, or even prescriptions. I’ve been helping where I can. Thanks to those who help.

Some days are just so busy helping vulnerable people that I can't find time to post. Today is one of those days. Thank you to all who support me and the efforts of the Coalition for Justice and Human Rights. Without your participation and support, we cease to exist.

1/It’s shameful that AHS denies people in custody access to publicly funded treatment. This violates the spirit of the Canada Health Act. Health care must be equitable for all. What’s next, denying X-rays or surgery? #abpoli

The most amazing intake! Brought a Dënesųłiné (Dene) grandmother to meet with a Children's Services intake worker. GM can't keep her grandchild safe. The intake process starts with smudging/ prayer to the Creator. The worker was so respectful and really made the GM at ease.

1/ The issue of hungry children was rare in my 35 years of supporting vulnerable people. #abpoli

1/ A teen calls me, hoping I can get her mother into treatment. Rent is behind, no food, school fees still haven't been paid, not to mention nothing for Christmas. The stressors on this youth are immense. I'm hoping, daughter, and I can make treatment a viable choice for this mom.

It seems every time I critique the Alberta government, somebody bookmarks my posts. Perhaps one day, when freedom of speech is taken away (Notwithstanding Clause), they can wave my words in my face. Honestly, 2 years ago, I would have laughed at this. But now?

A lady(35) is being released from custody into treatment next week. She has nothing, and I'm trying to find size 7 shoes and clothes for 5'2" and of medium build. She has no family, no friends. She ran away at 13 to flee sexual abuse, and well, you can just piece together what happened after that.

What does a man in his late 60s do? Homeless, lonely, no access to safety, no housing. Significant health issues, including bad teeth and chronic weight loss. Afraid of the inner city and shelters. Well, he breaks the law and is arrested.

How strong is your belief in the presumption of innocence? Would you help someone—anyone—find a safe place to live or a treatment program? What if they were in custody?

1/ Get the call. A mom, despondent, feeling hopeless, a failure. Fleeing an abusive relationship, she grabs baby and whatever clothes she can. She calls me, begging for funds for baby formula. I, of course, help, not just financially, but also offer ongoing support and advocacy.

A man calls me, he is in custody until March. That's not his issue. His concern is that he has a son whose mental health he is worried about, and that his son is unable to cope. I've reached out to the boy and am happy to try and support this young man in whatever capacity he needs

1/ Given rent, given food costs, given govt cutbacks in the area of health care, supported living, and AISH, given housing shortages, given youth unemployment.. #abpoli #ableg #yegcc #yyccc

Picked up a disabled woman last night who was told to go to a shelter. She states that she has been sexually assaulted and refuses the shelter. An emergency social worker wouldn't do anything else for her. Thanks to your donations, I was able to get her a room and some food.

Please make a tax-deductible donation to support my work with the Coalition for Justice and Human Rights. In 2023, we helped over 1,100 vulnerable people across Alberta. Select “Outreach and Support” in the drop-down. Your support keeps this work going.

As I try and help some families this holiday season. Consider a one time donation. Check my pinned post. This is my busy season unfortunately.

1/ A mother is gutted: Her high-functioning disabled daughter is in care with Child Family Services. Mom is sober, and Mom has become housed and is not on the street. Mom and daughter love each other more than anything. CFS has cut back visits to 2x A MONTH, for 2X Hours. #abpoli #ableg

When agencies obtain @youralberta.bsky.social funding, many sign agreements not to criticize the government or speak to the media or public about systemic or specific issues.

1/ Update on the Vulnerable Blind person who was on the streets, as he was unable to reach anyone at AISH. He ended up in the Emergency and was admitted. He had eye surgery(Cataracts), and can see. He was released yesterday and is now in a motel for a few days.

15yr old calls me from school. Needs a ride home. Too many bus connections (4), and she needs to get home as her mom is intoxicated and depressed. My afternoon.

MLA Richard Wilson of #Maskwacis and Minister for Addiction and Mental Health is denying persons, including Indigenous persons currently in custody, access to any Recovery Alberta residential treatment program on release.

With a blind 55-year-old man. Very fragile. On Aish. He has had all ten fingertips amputated. His residence burned down. Now in a motel. He states Income Support refuses to provide food or support.

This sort of nightmare happened to my parents when they moved. I would strongly recommend you avoid Rogers at all costs. They constantly bothered my folks trying to upsell them. www.cbc.ca/news/gopubli...

My morning started with a visit at the remand centre and speak to some elderly inmates. Now I am taking a vulnerable visually impaired man to the Dr. This is my day.

On my way back to #yeg. Dropped off a mom of 3 children at Bonnyville Indian Métis Treatment Centre. A really compassionate and beautiful facility.

Today, the Government of Alberta has introduced Bill 9 which uses the notwithstanding clause to restrict the rights of Two-Spirit, trans & gender diverse people. This legislation is brought days ahead of Trans Day of Remembrance - a day meant to honour the lives lost to anti-trans violence.

Still feeling ill. Staying home another day. But exposing a bunch of vulnerable persons and others to whatever I have is irresponsible and selfish.

Family calls me. Their 20yr old daughter/sister passed this week from an OD. I've worked with this woman since she was born(I drove mom to hospital to give birth). Over the decades family and I fought many battles together. I just listened. So tragic.

Sick in bed today. Won't be posting. Just sleeping.

Dropped off some wet cat food to a disabled woman who is fighting Child Services for more access to her 13-year-old daughter. Alone, her main support is this little kitty, whom she has had for the last 4 months.

Ive been asked to help a disabled mom. Her 13yr old daughter has pled guilty to stealing over 7 cars. Obviously, there are some very serious underlying issues. Here to help!

1/ Off to court to support a young man in docket court. His systemic issues is addiction. And of course, in this wacky province, government-run facilities will not take persons out of custody. Thus, most get dumped onto the streets, and guess what? Use, and quickly reoffend. #abpoli

Helping an Indigenous mom of five small children who lives in subsidized housing. She had discovered "Black Mold." Testing is complete, but the agency running the project is refusing to share the results. This is my fight today.

I get these tragic texts. And thanks to your donations, I can make some of their struggle somewhat bearable. Thank you to those who donate!!

An Indigenous Grandmother(Kokum) is now living in a hotel after her house burned down. She lost all her photos and memories of her six relatives, including grandchildren who have passed. She is devastated. Gave her some funds yesterday.

Helping a young single mom of 5 children, including a newborn. She had her gallbladder removed and has an infection. So the meds are covered, but not the change of bandages, and of course, she is still "THE" mother of her little darlings. And has little family support, thus, where I come into play.