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Beth and George should be retiring this year – but they can’t. A work accident rendered George’s back useless for continued labour jobs. With no formal education, injury compensation, or options, George is left trying to pick up odd cash jobs. Beth has bounced from job to job with difficulty getting along with people, particularly educated supervisors who are younger and less competent than she is. They can’t afford rent and never bought a house, had two kids, and live in a fifth wheel. Last month their son died. He was thirty-six. Tim grew up watching his parents struggle and vowed to be different. He started his own business and succeeded. Got married, had kids, and started taking drugs to combat the inner voices of despair, doubt, depression, and discouragement. Tim never felt good enough. He lost his home, his wife and kids, his business, and his way. Tim always seemed to be happy, but that façade was masking a deep hurt that was soothed only, Tim thought, with drugs. He learned to “cook” his own supply and sell some to friends for spending cash. Something went wrong and Tim was overcome by the fumes where his mom found him dead on the floor of his cabin. Beth and George’s daughter refuses to have anything to do with her family. She’s escaped and never wants to come back. But she too is hurting, hiding, and huddling from help – hoping that by remaining busy as a mom and business owner she will never have to face her past or deal with the present heartache of a dead drug-addled brother and parents in destitution. Manna has supplied bikes for transportation to Beth, George, and Tim – each twice – the bikes get broken or stolen but were still necessary for getting to work or doctors’ appointments – so we try to help. Manna has provided weekly groceries for the past five years in hopes of encouraging self-sustainability and a sense of being valued, respected, and treasured by friends who do not judge, condemn, or marginalize. There is no happy-ever-after ending to this story or the stories of those represented in this story. Poverty of the Soul has robbed individuals of hope. Poverty of the Mind has stunted creativity for problem-solving. Poverty of the Spirit has erased future possibilities and instilled an overwhelming sense of victimization. At Manna, we believe God loves all creation. Toward everyone God extends value, a sense of being treasured, respected, cared for, comforted, honoured, trusted, and endowed with creative responsibility. God is actively seeking to demonstrate that kind of love to everyone – but it takes courage to be vulnerably loved like God wants to love all His children. How to help: Pray for our friends who live in vulnerable, marginalized situations that they may find hope through Manna’s encouragement and help to move from surviving to thriving. Contribute to the ongoing wholesale food purchasing Manna is able to do through QF so that each donation reaches further into our community.

‘Street’ feet, also known as trench foot, is a very serious problem for the homeless. Prolonged exposure to cold damp temperatures caused by wearing wet socks or footwear without being able to change them can be health threatening. If left untreated, open sores and blisters can lead to infection and later gangrene or even amputation. The most devastating part of ‘Street’ feet is that this affliction is 100% preventable by getting feet warm and dry once they have become cold and wet. Air drying feet and changing socks is a simple remedy. Sadly, the people of Oceanside without shelter from the cold and damp and adequate changes of socks and shoes are suffering (see photos below). With the lack of an Extreme Weather Shelter in Oceanside or a place to seek refuge from the cold wet weather, it is no surprise that the number of cases has quadrupled in the last 3 years.

If you’ve got a sleeping bag or blanket lying around, please consider donating it to the less fortunate. These items are desperately needed as of this posting. Donations may be dropped off at our receiving box opposite the main entrance at the Wildlife Recovery Centre on Leffler Road in Errington. And if you see someone in need, text or phone for help from Manna: 250-248-0845. Thank you so much for your help. The Manna Team Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

In the heart of our neighborhood, we found The poor, the sick, and the afflicted abound In shantytown, where love was needed most We sought to give, to comfort, to host With open arms and a generous heart We brought food, blankets, a warm coat to impart For those in need, who had so little to claim We offered love, compassion, and a comforting flame Beneath the cold, nasty night’s embrace We stood with hope, to bring warmth and grace To share in their burdens, their sorrows, their fears And offer a listening ear, wiping away their tears In every face, we saw resilience and might Amidst adversity, they still held onto light So together we basked in love’s gentle glow As we built a bond that would continue to grow For in finding the poor, sick, and afflicted in our midst We discover the power of love to persist To uplift, to heal, and to mend every soul Bringing warmth, comfort, making broken hearts whole Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VOociety

CLOSED, CLOSED, CLOSED. How Horrible is this the extreme weather shelter is not open in the Oceanside area due to these criteria’s ☠️🙏. Note if this doesn’t change there will be more people filling the hospitals unnecessarily due to these horrible weather conditions that we are going through now. As well as deaths that can be related and contributed to battling these weather conditions while living and sleeping outside…☠️☠️☠️☠️🙏🙏 On the streets of the Oceanside area… The decision to open an extreme weather shelter is typically based on a combination of temperature and weather conditions. The specific criteria for opening such shelters can vary depending on the location, local government regulations, and the organization operating the shelter. However, in general, extreme weather shelters are often opened when temperatures fall below a certain threshold, usually around 0°C (32°F) or lower, especially when combined with other factors such as heavy rain, snow, or high winds. For 2024, the specific temperature and weather conditions to open an extreme weather shelter in British Columbia would likely be determined by local authorities and organizations involved in providing emergency shelter services. These decisions are often made in response to weather forecasts, emergency management protocols, and considerations for the health and safety of vulnerable individuals experiencing homelessness or inadequate housing. It’s important to note that extreme weather shelter policies and guidelines can change over time, so it’s essential to consult with relevant local authorities, emergency services, and shelter providers for the most up-to-date information on when and under what conditions extreme weather shelters will be opened in British Columbia, Canada in 2024. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

More Humane thoughts needed when exposing the homeless to the elements💔☠️ … MY FIVE TOP REASONS 💔 Exposure to moisture: Wet slushy rain poses a higher risk of exposure to moisture for the homeless compared to hard snow and cold. The slushy rain can seep through clothing and blankets, leading to wetness that is difficult to escape from. This moisture can cause hypothermia and exacerbate existing health conditions. Lack of adequate shelter: Finding suitable shelter during wet slushy rain can be particularly challenging for the homeless. While hard snow may provide some insulation, wet slushy rain can quickly penetrate makeshift shelters and make them uninhabitable. This lack of protection can lead to increased discomfort and health risks. Difficulty in staying dry: Staying dry becomes much more challenging in wet slushy rain as compared to hard snow and cold. Snow can often be brushed off or shaken off, but slushy rain saturates everything it comes into contact with, making it difficult for the homeless to keep their belongings, clothing, and bedding dry. Health hazards: Wet slushy rain increases the risk of health hazards such as trench foot, frostbite, and respiratory illnesses. The prolonged exposure to damp conditions can lead to skin problems and other health issues, making it harder for the homeless to maintain their health and well-being. Access to resources: During wet slushy rain, access to resources such as dry clothing, warm blankets, and hot meals becomes even more limited. As Many shelters CLOSE AND DON’T accommodate everyone seeking refuge from the rain, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the homeless population. In summary, wet slushy rain presents unique challenges for the homeless population, including increased exposure to moisture, difficulty in finding adequate shelter, staying dry, health hazards, and limited access to essential resources. These factors collectively contribute to the heightened difficulty of surviving wet slushy rain compared to hard snow and cold. We need to change the definition of what “extreme weather” means in British Columbia on Vancouver Island… this current weather is more extreme than the cold. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VOty

… So many stories we could share… Dave… Some background on Dave… A week earlier he had been hit by car. And now a week later Dave could not move his legs due to the accident and lack of nourishment. Dave was found and an ambulance called… Two days later during the evening, Dave was released from hospital – no shelter, no place to go… Wow! Homeless, and just released from the hospital 9 pm at night… the harsh reality of no shelter and no sense of security on this rainy cold night, We were welcomed by Dave after a phone call that had alerted us that Dave needed help… Sylvie and I received Dave with open arms on this rainy cold night… We provided him with an oven-fresh muffin from the oven which Sylvie had prepared, with warm nourishment, a couple hot burgers, sleeping bag, dry warm coat, dry socks, hand warmers… restoring his hope and dignity. Witnessing his transformation filled our hearts with immeasurable joy, for there is no greater feeling in the world than being able to offer love, compassion, and support to those in need. In giving him all that he needed, we not only helped him find stability, but also reaffirmed the profound impact of kindness and empathy in making a positive difference in someone’s life. So much love ❤️ 🕊️🙏 as we wanted Dave to see and feel Christ’s love from our hearts.🕊️💔❤️‍🩹 Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

In Smithers Shantytown, the presence of criminal activity and wicked individuals has created an environment of fear and danger for the residents. These nefarious individuals engage in a wide range of illegal and harmful activities, including robbery, kidnapping, breaking into trailers, stealing food and gift cards, administering drugs forcibly, coercing people into prostitution, and even committing acts of murder. The prevalence of robbery and theft in the area suggests a lack of respect for property rights and the safety of others. Residents are likely to live in constant fear of being targeted by these criminals, impacting their sense of security and well-being. Kidnapping adds another layer of terror, as individuals could be forcibly taken from their homes or public spaces against their will, causing significant trauma to both the victims and their loved ones. Breaking into trailers not only violates personal space but also creates a sense of vulnerability and invasion of privacy. The theft of food and food gift cards further exacerbates the dire circumstances faced by the victims, potentially leading to food insecurity and financial hardship. The forcible administration of drugs represents a grave violation of bodily autonomy and consent. It subjects individuals to physical harm and risks associated with drug use without their consent, potentially leading to severe health consequences and emotional distress. Coercing individuals into prostitution is a gross exploitation of human beings, stripping them of their agency and subjecting them to dehumanizing treatment. This practice perpetuates cycles of violence and exploitation, leaving lasting scars on the victims. Tragically, the ultimate consequence of the wickedness present in Smithers Shantytown is the loss of life through murder. Such heinous acts not only devastate families and communities but also create an atmosphere of pervasive fear and distrust. The collective impact of these criminal activities contributes to a climate of lawlessness, fear, and desperation in Smithers Shantytown. It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies to address the root causes of this criminal behavior and to provide support and protection for the vulnerable residents of the community. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

The failure to protect humans in poor weather conditions, leading to individuals being forced to sleep in the elements or in cars, while simultaneously imposing charges for keeping animals unprotected, raises critical ethical and societal concerns. This situation underscores the need for a comprehensive and equitable approach to ensure the safety and well-being of all living beings during poor weather events. Firstly, the inability to provide adequate shelter and protection for humans facing extreme weather conditions reflects systemic failures in social support systems and emergency response mechanisms. It highlights issues such as inadequate affordable housing, insufficient emergency shelters, and gaps in disaster preparedness and response efforts. These shortcomings can disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including low-income individuals, the homeless, and those without access to reliable housing. Conversely, the imposition of charges for failing to protect animals during poor weather demonstrates an inconsistency in how societal priorities are reflected in policy and enforcement. While it is important to ensure the welfare of animals, the disparity in treatment between humans and animals in the context of extreme weather reveals a troubling double standard and a lack of equity in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the comparison of these circumstances underscores the need for a more holistic and inclusive approach to emergency management and community support. This includes initiatives to enhance affordable housing options, establish sufficient and accessible emergency shelters for all individuals in need, and implement non-discriminatory policies that prioritize the safety of both humans and animals during poor weather events. In addition, this situation calls for a reevaluation of existing legal frameworks and regulations pertaining to the protection of both human and animal lives during extreme weather. It prompts a critical examination of laws and policies related to homelessness, emergency assistance, and animal welfare to ensure that they align with principles of social justice, compassion, and inclusivity. Ultimately, addressing the failure to protect humans in poor weather while penalizing individuals for not safeguarding their animals requires a comprehensive and compassionate response. It necessitates a coordinated effort involving government agencies, non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, and the broader community to address root causes, mitigate disparities, and uphold the fundamental rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status or species. Only through a concerted and empathetic approach can we strive to create a more just and resilient society where everyone, human and animal alike, can find safety and security in the face of poor weather challenges. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VOiety

Kathy’s face lit up with joy as she received the keys to her motor home from Raquel a beautiful and spacious vehicle that would finally provide her with a stable, safe, and healthy living environment. The thought of having a place to call her own filled her with a sense of relief and excitement. It was a turning point in Kathy’s life, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities for quality living. The motor home represents a symbol of independence and security that will greatly enhance her overall well-being. Manna Homeless Society was so happy to play a part in helping Kathy in her new journey.