Cambridge needs more support for our citizens in need

As a group of concerned Cambridge citizens, two things are apparent to us.

First, Cambridge desperately needs more support for our citizens in need.

Galt is already bearing an unfair share of responsibility by having the region’s largest shelter located in the core. The Bridge’s clients need support from other organizations.

Affordable housing’s wait time of years is unacceptable; it backs up the whole support system resulting in predictable problems.

Eliminating homelessness seems impossible but is not! We strongly support the exciting Homeless and Housing Umbrella Group (HHUG) initiatives to eliminate homelessness; we ask the city to aggressively promote and support HHUG’s efforts.

Long wait times for detox services, mental health support, transition services, and ongoing treatment are resulting in many of the behavioural issues we witness every day.

We are encouraged by many social services initiatives that are already in the works. We recommend more public information sessions about these progressive initiatives.

Second, a moratorium on social services in the Galt core is needed.

We believe that Cambridge city council should set policy that forces future distribution of social support agencies and services outside the Galt core.

We have an excellent public transit system that is only getting better; thus, there is no hardship involved in travelling a few blocks to access social support agencies and services.

Main Street and the surrounding blocks should be focused on attracting and supporting local businesses and their clients. Cambridge citizens really want to support businesses in the Galt core and see the area thrive.

Dan Clements For A Better Cambridge Cambridge