'I love what we do every day': The second annual Unity Walk in downtown Winnipeg

A sea of yellow safety vests hit downtown Winnipeg Saturday, volunteers pouring their hearts into the heart of the city.

Every week – grassroots volunteer foot patrols like the Bear Clan Patrol, Central Foot Patrol, and The Thunderbirds take to the streets of Winnipeg.

Terry Thomas is one of those volunteers, walking with his parents as part of the Central Foot Patrol.

"It's been an experience for me,” Thomas said. “Got me out of the streets."

The patrols often meet unsheltered people on the street; handing out food, water, and other needed supplies.

Volunteer Barb Young started with the Bear Clan Patrol in 2021, later convincing her husband to join as well. She says patrolling makes a difference.

“It’s really enriching,” she said. "It helps check any misconceptions you might have about the homeless.”