Yesterday in Smithers shantytown, a distressing lack of basic necessities was discovered. The community was found to be deprived of essential resources which we were able to provide such as water, heat, food, and blankets, warm winter coats and all sorts of clothes to keep warm despite the onset of winter. Furthermore, a significant number of individuals were reported to be unwell, with four people lying on the floor in an ailing state. Their sickness was attributed to dehydration resulting from the absence of adequate water supply. Additionally, it was noted that the living conditions were substandard, with the mention of cramped quarters 8ft x 8ft living area in this situation. It pointed to a dire need for immediate intervention and support which we provided for the vulnerable population who live in Smithers shantytown.
Author: susan.teed@gmail.com
Manna Supports David in His Time of Need
David had been hit by a car. He needed a cane and he needed warm boots. This is the way Manna has Sunday morning church.
Living and Dying on the Streets
The lack of validation for caring for the poor has led to a societal neglect that has contributed to an increase in the number of people living and dying on the streets. Validation, which involves recognizing and affirming the value of caring for others, plays a critical role in shaping societal attitudes and policies. When acts of compassion and support for the less fortunate are not validated, it can lead to indifference, stigma, and an erosion of support systems for those in need.
This lack of validation perpetuates a cycle of poverty, marginalization, and homelessness, further exacerbating the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals. As a result, more people are forced to live on the streets without access to adequate resources, support, or opportunities for improvement. Without validation for caring for the poor, society fails to address the root causes of homelessness and poverty, ultimately leading to a situation where more people are left without shelter, healthcare, and basic necessities, tragically resulting in increased instances of premature death among the homeless population.
Therefore, the lack of validation for caring for the poor has played a significant role in perpetuating the crisis of homelessness and its associated hardships, highlighting the urgent need for broader validation and support for compassionate initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of the most vulnerable members of society.
Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society
More Homeless Dying Than Ever Before
What have we done… The coroner’s report says more homeless people are dying than ever before. What have we done… The increasing number of deaths among the homeless population in British Columbia, Canada, and specifically on Vancouver Island, is undoubtedly a pressing concern that requires immediate attention and action. Numerous factors, including lack of affordable housing, mental health issues, substance abuse, and systemic inadequacies in social support systems, have likely contributed to this tragic situation.
Addressing this issue will require a multi-faceted approach. First and foremost, there needs to be a concerted effort to provide safe and affordable housing for the homeless population, along with the necessary support services to help them address their underlying issues. Mental health and addiction support programs must be expanded and made readily accessible to those in need. Additionally, efforts should be made to tackle the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty and unemployment, through targeted social policies and economic initiatives.
Furthermore, collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups is crucial in order to implement effective solutions. This could involve increased funding for homelessness prevention programs, coordination of outreach efforts, and the development of comprehensive strategies to address the complex needs of the homeless population.
Public awareness and advocacy are also essential in effecting change. By raising awareness about the plight of the homeless and advocating for policy reforms, communities can encourage meaningful action and support for those most vulnerable.
Ultimately, addressing the rising deaths in homelessness requires a collective and compassionate response from all levels of society. It is imperative that we come together to find sustainable solutions that prioritize the well-being and dignity of every individual, regardless of their housing status.
Click here to see this article as it appeared in the PQB News.