No more Harleys
In the 16 months since Harley Lawrence died, the community has reeled from the news of his murder.
On Feb. 23, the preliminary inquiry into his murder halted suddenly and the two men accused of his death changed their pleas to guilty to second degree murder.
It’s hard to believe such a heinous crime could occur here – or anywhere, really. We will likely forever wonder what prompted two men to take the steps that led to Harley’s murder.
If there is any good to come from such tragedy, it is the heightened awareness about homelessness in our community. Harley’s plight has helped show how necessary services like Open Arms in Berwick and Kentville really are.
The community clearly understands that as well. The Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk, held in Kentville Feb. 22, brought in more than $72,000 to help combat homelessness. The Annapolis Valley Walk, small though it might be, is certainly mighty – it came fifth in terms of the most money raised at events held across Canada.
More importantly, it also raises awareness – something that is essential in our community. Harley was very visible because he lived on the streets of Berwick, but he is far from the only person in this situation.
Earlier this week – on the same day the accused pled guilty to Harley’s second degree murder – Kings County learned of another man who is living on the streets in Kentville.
William Harvey moved to Kings County for work from Windsor. Harvey lost a leg in a hit and run car accident 10 years ago in Halifax and now uses a wheelchair to get around. Because he has been unable to find a wheelchair accessible apartment, Harvey now lives on the streets, even though he can afford an apartment.
On cold nights, Harvey goes to Inn From the Cold. On other nights, he hangs out at local coffee shops or sleeps in a co-worker’s vehicle. One particularly cold night, his employer put him up in a hotel for a night.
This isn’t acceptable, and it’s clear that finding a way to better address homelessness in our community needs to be everyone’s priority. It’s time for municipal, provincial and federal governments to come together to do something to address homelessness.
If we are to honour Harley’s memory in any way, it should involve making sure there are no more people living on the streets. It’s time for Kings County to make a commitment that there will be no more Harley’s and to find ways to help men like William Harvey.