Cities involved
Edmonton
The Beverly area in Edmonton is one of the city's oldest neighborhoods. It's also the site of H.E.R.O.S. fourth franchise operation, to be launched in the fall of 2007.
Over the years, Beverly has been home to each new wave of immigrants looking to forge a fresh life. Money is tight for many families living in the blocks of rundown walk–up, post–war–era apartment buildings.
A sign on a lawn reads: "Prostitution will not be tolerated."
There's weariness among residents who’ve seen it all too many times before. "Neighborhood Watch" warnings feature prominently on most gates and well–lit doorways.
There's a cluster of pawnshops along Beverly's main drag. A few doors down, a tired café serves up toast and coffee. There's no cappuccino or fresh croissants here.
Kids raised in Beverly face the quadruple threat common to all depressed inner-city neighbourhoods: drugs, prostitution, crime and gangs.
Mostly, these are children of parents on income assistance or the working poor. With few economic resources, they struggle to make healthy life choices and dream of a brighter future.
H.E.R.O.S. – through its hockey program – helps at–risk youth build self–esteem and life skills.
It offers these children a different picture – one filled with fun, respect, hard work and discipline, but most of all, hope.
