GOVERNMENT CAN FIX HOMELESSNESS

The recent encampment eviction in the Halifax area has brought up a devastating issue that has been around for centuries. HRM officials recently shut down power to the city hall encampment on March 1 in a deadly effort to force residents out, and no less during the frigid winter months. Although the city claimed there were shelters for these encampment residents, some chose to stay outside, and for good reason.

There have been many articles on the problems in homeless shelters and each has many of the same words; violence, unhygienic, and full. Countless people reported unhygienic conditions to the level where they would rather sleep in the streets as it is “safer” in all means. How do we expect to help people when the places designed to help them are broken? For some, they have already tried to seek help but have been met with a lack of support and necessities. One man is living on $380 a month in welfare, and with Halifax being one of the most expensive cities to live, it is barely enough to buy food. They are sitting hungry in the cold darkness, while our politicians are watching.

It’s time our government starts helping its people, regardless of how much they donate to campaigns. This is a problem our country is capable of fixing, we just have to do it. Some might say it’s not worth it, but before you judge, remember, these are someone’s sons, daughters, siblings, and friends, and they continue to live this life, whether we choose to acknowledge it or not. Catherine Morris, UPEI student, Summerside, P.E.I.