Fundraiser aims to raise awareness for mental health and homelessness

Calvin MacFarlaneHousing Initiatives will be hosting the Hope and Healing Art Show at Cargo Coffee East featuring the paintings of Calvin MacFarlane, a Housing Initiatives tenant, Tuesday, November 10, from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

The event is meant to raise awareness for mental illness and homelessness in the Madison area, as well as awareness for Housing Initiatives’ goal of providing permanent housing for people who are chronically homeless as a result of a severe mental illness.

Amanda White, a consultant with Housing Initiatives, said that nearly a third of homeless people living in Madison have a diagnosed mental illness, and research indicates that another third may have an undiagnosed mental illness.

“It really is a huge leading factor in homelessness, so we’re talking about solutions for how we can help people who are homeless and struggling,” White said.

MacFarlane has been with Housing Initiatives for more than ten years. He earned a bachelors and a masters degree in art before mental illness and substance abuse made it hard for him to keep a job.

 Twenty of MacFarlane's paintings will be available for sale.“Mental illness just sneaks up on people, and it can really happen to anybody.  It knocks you off your feet, and for some people who have a big support network they may get the help they need, but then there are plenty of others in our community who don’t get the help they need.  There are a lot of people like Calvin in our community,” she said.

After his time with Housing Initiatives, Harris is now alcohol- and drug-free, and art is selling internationally. About 20 of his paintings will be displayed in the coffee shop.

The event is free. There will be coffee, light appetizers and a cash bar. MacFarlane’s paintings will be on display and available for purchase at Cargo Coffee East until Nov. 30.