Last night in Collingwood, United Way Simcoe Muskoka presented a screening of the film “Four Feet Up” as part of its second annual Real2Reel Film Festival. Directed by Nance Ackerman, “Four Feet Up” follows Isaiah as he contemplates what being “less fortunate” means and finds his voice through his own drawings and photography.
Following the screening of the thought-provoking documentary, a panel featuring local advocates discussed the film and what poverty looks like in Collingwood. The panel, made up of Vanessa Hurley from the Health Unit, Samantha Jones from My Friend’s House, and Doug Linton from the Collingwood Affordable Housing Task Force, delved into an engaging conversation that touched on complex social issues such as childhood mental health and generational poverty.
“What an impactful way to kick off this year’s Real2Reel Film Festival,” remarked Brian Shelley, Chief Executive and Philanthropy Officer at United Way Simcoe Muskoka. “It is our hope that sharing stories like ‘Four Feet Up’ can spark important conversations and inspire change in our community.
“A huge thank you to the RBC Foundation and Enbridge,” added Shelley. “Their financial commitment to this film series is critical to supporting the United Way’s advocacy and education efforts.”
The Real2Reel Film Festival continues with upcoming screenings in Huntsville, Midland, and Barrie over the coming months. For more information on upcoming screenings, visit uwsimcoemuskoka.ca/real2reel-film-festival/.