It is crucial to recognize that homeless individuals are human beings who deserve empathy, understanding, and support in Parksville. Viewing homelessness as solely a problem rather than seeing the individuals involved as humans in need can lead to dehumanization and a lack of compassion.
When shelters are not provided and buildings not made available or accessible, the number of people experiencing homelessness can indeed increase. Lack of shelter options can leave individuals vulnerable to the elements, safety concerns, and health risks. Without proper resources and assistance, the cycle of homelessness can perpetuate, making it even more challenging for individuals to break free from the circumstances that led to their sad situation.
Efforts to address homelessness should involve a holistic approach that includes providing stable housing options, access to mental health services, job training programs, substance abuse treatment, and social support systems. By addressing the root causes of homelessness and offering comprehensive solutions, we can work towards reducing the number of individuals experiencing homelessness and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and security.
In the PQ News November 1st 2023, Mayor Doug stated overnight shelters and warmings stations caused havoc and he was drawing a line in the sand. Which he did. He was going to offer a permanent solution… no more dirty Band-Aid.. Mayor Doug states… However, last winter neither a building was made available for a shelter nor even a warming station to get reprieve from the cold.
The solution Mayor Doug offered was the ‘Red House Blue House’ proposal. There was actually eight different colours of houses depending on the needs of the individuals that were creating the homeless situation… Very sad to say, not only did we not have a shelter for the first time in years but none of these houses materialized. As a result, many people became sick due to weather conditions and some passed away.
Sadly, there was a team of people ready to run a shelter and warming station. The shelter finances were available and the Insurance was in place, but the city wouldn’t give up a building. This winter we have an opportunity to bring back the dirty bandage until these houses are provided. This lack of care is only making Parksville very unsafe for all the community.
We still have time to prepare for this coming winter and make sure we don’t have a repeat of this horrible disaster we faced last winter.
Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society
Box 389 Errington BC VOR-1VO