In Part two of our series on rural homelessness in Western Canada, we turn our focus to Grand Prairie, Medicine Hat, and Saskatoon, places where the crisis is just as real but often far less visible. Through conversations with leaders from our varying team members, this episode sheds light on the unique housing challenges faced outside major city centers. 

We discuss how rising costs, limited services, and growing populations are straining already fragile systems. You'll hear about the power of outreach programs, the importance of supportive housing, and the resilience of individuals navigating life without stable shelter. 

This episode is a call to see and support our rural neighbors who are experiencing homelessness—and to recognize that real change begins with awareness and compassion.

This podcast episode explores the hidden crisis of rural homelessness, focusing on The Mustard Seed's journey in serving communities like Red Deer and Kamloops. It highlights the unique challenges faced in rural areas, including limited resources, the complexity of homelessness, and the importance of community support. Through personal stories and insights from staff and community members, the episode sheds light on the realities of those experiencing homelessness and the efforts made to provide compassionate care and support. 

Timestamps  

00:00 The Mustard Seed's Journey: A Compassionate Beginning 

02:17 Understanding Rural Homelessness: A Hidden Crisis 

05:18 Challenges of Rural Homelessness: Insights from Red Deer 

07:54 The Complexity of Homelessness: Urban vs. Rural Perspectives 

10:40 Personal Stories: The Impact of Hidden Homelessness 

13:42 Kamloops: A Growing Community with Rising Needs 

18:58 Community Response: Addressing the Needs of the Homeless 

21:43 The Future of Rural Outreach: Expanding Services and Support 

What happens to your health when you lose your home—when your mind navigates survival, and your spirit fights to stay intact? In this episode, we confront the unseen toll of homelessness on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Through personal stories and frontline insight, we explore how The Mustard Seed responds to these complex needs in cities across Western Canada—meeting people not just with services, but with dignity, humanity, and hope. 

Timestamps  

00:00 The Birth of The Mustard Seed 

01:02 Health Impacts of Homelessness 

02:54 Personal Stories of Resilience 

12:03 Barriers to Healthcare Access 

19:59 The Role of Pharmacy in Supporting Health 

29:49 Holistic Approaches to Wellness 

39:09 Conclusion and Call to Action 

You may be wondering... who is The Mustard Seed? This conversation explores the journey and impact of our organization as we support vulnerable citizens in Western Canada. It highlights our humble beginnings, the importance of community and relationships, the complexities of homelessness, and the significance of language in addressing social issues. Personal stories of transformation and the daily operations of The Mustard Seed are discussed, along with the challenges faced and the achievements made in providing essential services to those in need.   
 

00:00 The Humble Beginnings of The Mustard Seed 

05:33 Understanding Homelessness and Its Complexities 

12:50 The Importance of Person-First Language 

18:07 Community Impact Centers and Their Role 

23:24 Addressing Challenges and Achievements 

In this episode, we explore the multifaceted issue of homelessness in Edmonton and how we have worked tediously over time to serve the community. We discuss the challenges faced by the homeless population, the importance of community and volunteer support, and the complexities of reintegration for our guests. One of our clients shares a personal story of resilience and describes the impact of COVID-19 on social services. We also explore the evolving landscape of social services in the city as we support the near 5000 people experiencing homelessness in the city.  
 

00:00 The Roots of Compassion: A Historical Perspective 

03:00 Understanding Homelessness in Edmonton 

05:55 Reintegration: The Journey Back to Society 

08:59 The Role of Shelters and Community Support 

11:53 Personal Stories: The Impact of Kindness 

14:57 The Evolving Landscape of Homelessness 

17:47 Challenges Faced by the Homeless Community 

21:13 The Importance of Connection and Community 

23:59 Looking Ahead: Future Initiatives and Support 

Hope Grown – The Mustard Seed Podcast shares inspiring stories of transformation while addressing poverty and homelessness. Through meaningful conversations with those impacted by our work, as well as staff, volunteers, and community partners, we explore challenges faced by underserved populations and celebrate triumphs. Join us as we cultivate understanding, spark hope, and inspire action toward building healthier, more inclusive communities.

Listen. Learn. Grow.

Timestamps

(00:00) - The Humble Beginnings of The Mustard Seed

(2:00) - Understanding those who experience homelessness and poverty

(03:00) - Unconditional love and trauma informed-care through TMS