ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- This upcoming Saturday, the Elmira community can get involved with helping the homeless. A community outreach event will be happening at Turtle Leaf Cafe. 

Adam Bunce, candidate for Chemung County Legislator in District 9, wants to show homeless people some love. 

“There's obviously a huge issue in Chemung County, specifically Elmira downtown with homelessness.” 

Bunce's cafe has been open a little over seven years. He said the issue has gotten bigger recently around Turtle Leaf Cafe. 

“I'm kind of ashamed,” he said. "There's been such an issue with homelessness, like, literally blocks away from my cafe for probably as long as my cafe has been there... even longer.” 

 Bunce will be inviting homeless people to speak at the event. He will be doing so to raise awareness. 

“We're actually going to have a few of our homeless and displaced friends there as well on Saturday,” he said. "People can connect with them and... see some of the struggles...see some of the things they're dealing with on a daily basis.” 

 Bunce said the community should take every opportunity to help. 

"In my opinion, I don't care what color you are, what economic status you are, none of that matters to me,” he said. “We're all humans, we all deserve to have basic needs met and there are people in my city who do not have their basic needs met.” 

 Bunce is working with "The Sister's Keepers,” a group of women in Elmira. They are making lists of items people can donate to help. 

“Simple things like, you know, canned food with specifically pop tops because can openers aren't always accessible,” he said. “Blankets, the little warmer packs that you break...open that keep you warm for five to six hours. “ 

The event will take place from 12-3 pm on Saturday at Turtle Leaf Cafe at 315 E Water Street.