GuelphToday received the following Letter to the Editor from reader, June Elliot, in regards to homelessness in the community:
I agree with Liz Hales about the distressing situation of our homeless population. My apartment is steps from the encampment at St. Georges Square.
Yesterday I returned from a visit to Halifax, NS and I was impressed, indeed awed by the dignity awarded to, and the acceptance and support of the homeless population in that city. The city personnel and the citizens have joined together to provide a designated space, the Parade Ground, for a tent neighbourhood. It is adjacent to, but not IN the business district. The tents are spaced, some are donated and they are in neat rows. All belongings are inside the tents. The area is clean, with picnic tables for eating, and chairs for sitting out on a good day. There is a row of maintained porta potties. Water is delivered in cases. Many volunteers help. There is a discreet fence to mark the path for residents of the city to make their usual shortcut to work, walking or biking, without disturbing the privacy of the residents of the encampment.
In addition, there are enough indoor beds in various buildings nearby for every person who needs or wants one at night.
If it can happen in Halifax, it can happen here.
June Elliot,
Guelph, Ont.
