About this episode

This episode discusses the critical role of an on-site social worker in emergency shelters and how it supports vulnerable individuals.

When Hope Mission began operating an emergency shelter in Red Deer, it included an on-site social worker from day one. Janea Dressler connects shelter guests to the right supports and helps them navigate systems that can otherwise slow progress. In this episode, Adina McKinnon, manager of community initiatives and partnerships, and Janea share how the social worker role meets a critical need for vulnerable people trying to navigate complex systems. To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.

People in this episode

Guests: Janea Dressler, Adina McKinnon

Topics covered

• social work
• emergency shelter
• vulnerable populations
• community support
• navigating systems

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Hope Mission

Places: Red Deer

More episodes of Hope Stories

• Navigating Care Beyond the ER · May 5, 2026 · 28 min
• Rising Demand for Women’s Shelter · April 29, 2026 · 23 min
• Shelter opens in Red Deer · April 2, 2026 · 34 min
• 24/7 Shelter Provides Fresh Start for Red Deer · March 24, 2026 · 22 min
• Nurse Practitioners Close Gaps in Care · March 2, 2026 · 42 min
• How Accreditation Strengthens Recovery · February 24, 2026 · 28 min

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