Kim Coreau has been helping the homeless for nearly 20 years.
The self-described real housewife said giving back to her community is something that's been passed down from her grandmother. Recently a friend suggested that she get some help herself in order to give more so she started a Facebook page.
On Wednesday, Coreau found herself with more than 200 care packages filled with donations from people and businesses.
She had so much to give that she and volunteers were able to hand out food, clothing and even children's toys to the less fortunate on both sides of the city.
"To at least make them smile once today," Coreau said before the Helping the Homeless Smile campaign kicked off for the first time on Victoria Avenue.
While there are several shelters and missions in the area, Coreau said their resources are often tapped out because demand is so high.
"This is just my way of putting a drop in the bucket," she said.
People started coming to get care packages almost as soon as Coreau and her team set up. Joey Moonias is originally from Neskantaga. He said it's nice to see people giving back. While Thunder Bay offers a lot more than his community, it can sometimes be a difficult place to get around.
"It's really good to have something like this," Moonias said after getting his care package.
"At least I have something to go to."
Coreau said she and the volunteers will be working until all of the packages are gone. She's hoping to make Helping the Homeless Smile a monthly event.
