Message from Robin Campbell

….. So many stories we could share…Dave… Some background on Dave… A week earlier he had been hit by car. And now a week later Dave could not move his legs due to the accident and lack of nourishment. Dave was found and an ambulance called… Two days later during the evening, Dave was released from hospital – no shelter, no place to go…

Wow! Homeless, and just released from the hospital 9 pm at night… the harsh reality of no shelter and no sense of security on this rainy cold night, We were welcomed by Dave after a phone call that had alerted us that Dave needed help… Sylvie and I received Dave with open arms on this rainy cold night… We provided him with an oven-fresh muffin from the oven which Sylvie had prepared, with warm nourishment, a couple hot burgers, sleeping bag, dry warm coat, dry socks, hand warmers… restoring his hope and dignity. Witnessing his transformation filled our hearts with immeasurable joy, for there is no greater feeling in the world than being able to offer love, compassion, and support to those in need. In giving him all that he needed, we not only helped him find stability, but also reaffirmed the profound impact of kindness and empathy in making a positive difference in someone’s life.

So much love ❤️ 🕊️🙏 as we wanted Dave to see and feel Christ’s love from our hearts.🕊️💔❤️‍🩹

Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society

More Humane thoughts needed when exposing the homeless to the elements💔☠️ … MY FIVE TOP REASONS 💔

1. Exposure to moisture: Wet slushy rain poses a higher risk of exposure to moisture for the homeless compared to hard snow and cold. The slushy rain can seep through clothing and blankets, leading to wetness that is difficult to escape from. This moisture can cause hypothermia and exacerbate existing health conditions.

2. Lack of adequate shelter: Finding suitable shelter during wet slushy rain can be particularly challenging for the homeless. While hard snow may provide some insulation, wet slushy rain can quickly penetrate makeshift shelters and make them uninhabitable. This lack of protection can lead to increased discomfort and health risks.

3. Difficulty in staying dry: Staying dry becomes much more challenging in wet slushy rain as compared to hard snow and cold. Snow can often be brushed off or shaken off, but slushy rain saturates everything it comes into contact with, making it difficult for the homeless to keep their belongings, clothing, and bedding dry.

4. Health hazards: Wet slushy rain increases the risk of health hazards such as trench foot, frostbite, and respiratory illnesses. The prolonged exposure to damp conditions can lead to skin problems and other health issues, making it harder for the homeless to maintain their health and well-being.

5. Access to resources: During wet slushy rain, access to resources such as dry clothing, warm blankets, and hot meals becomes even more limited. As Many shelters CLOSE AND DON’T accommodate everyone seeking refuge from the rain, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the homeless population.

In summary, wet slushy rain presents unique challenges for the homeless population, including increased exposure to moisture, difficulty in finding adequate shelter, staying dry, health hazards, and limited access to essential resources. These factors collectively contribute to the heightened difficulty of surviving wet slushy rain compared to hard snow and cold.

We need to change the definition of what “extreme weather” means in British Columbia on Vancouver Island… this current weather is more extreme than the cold.

Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society

CLOSED, CLOSED, CLOSED.

How Horrible is this the extreme weather shelter is not open in the Oceanside area due to these criteria’s ☠️🙏. Note if this doesn’t change there will be more people filling the hospitals unnecessarily due to these horrible weather conditions that we are going through now. As well as deaths that can be related and contributed to battling these weather conditions while living and sleeping outside…☠️☠️☠️☠️🙏🙏

On the streets of the Oceanside area… The decision to open an extreme weather shelter is typically based on a combination of temperature and weather conditions. The specific criteria for opening such shelters can vary depending on the location, local government regulations, and the organization operating the shelter. However, in general, extreme weather shelters are often opened when temperatures fall below a certain threshold, usually around 0°C (32°F) or lower, especially when combined with other factors such as heavy rain, snow, or high winds.

For 2024, the specific temperature and weather conditions to open an extreme weather shelter in British Columbia would likely be determined by local authorities and organizations involved in providing emergency shelter services. These decisions are often made in response to weather forecasts, emergency management protocols, and considerations for the health and safety of vulnerable individuals experiencing homelessness or inadequate housing.

It’s important to note that extreme weather shelter policies and guidelines can change over time, so it’s essential to consult with relevant local authorities, emergency services, and shelter providers for the most up-to-date information on when and under what conditions extreme weather shelters will be opened in British Columbia, Canada in 2024.

Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society

In the heart of our neighborhood, we found
The poor, the sick, and the afflicted abound
In shantytown, where love was needed most
We sought to give, to comfort, to host

With open arms and a generous heart
We brought food, blankets, a warm coat to impart
For those in need, who had so little to claim
We offered love, compassion, and a comforting flame

Beneath the cold, nasty night’s embrace
We stood with hope, to bring warmth and grace
To share in their burdens, their sorrows, their fears
And offer a listening ear, wiping away their tears

In every face, we saw resilience and might
Amidst adversity, they still held onto light
So together we basked in love’s gentle glow
As we built a bond that would continue to grow

For in finding the poor, sick, and afflicted in our midst
We discover the power of love to persist
To uplift, to heal, and to mend every soul
Bringing warmth, comfort, making broken hearts whole

Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society

In Smithers Trailer Park, where darkness reigns,
The lost and struggling face their pains,
No heat in trailers, blankets thin,
Hunger grips as shadows dim.

Amidst the cold and desperate plight,
Love is the beacon, shining bright,
For those who’ve never known its grace,
Yearn for its warmth to fill the space.

In this place of need and sorrow,
Hope shines through each uncertain morrow,
Manna Homeless Society gathers, hearts unite,
To bring comfort in the darkest night.

So today we stand, hand in hand,
Reaching out to understand,
The lost and weary, seeking solace,
Finding love to heal and promise.

In Smithers Trailer Park, a light does glow,
A testament to love’s endless flow,
May warmth and kindness now abound,
And in each heart, compassion be found.🙏❤️🕊️🥀

Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society

As a community leader, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being and safety of all community members, especially during extreme weather conditions. Dismissing warming centers and extreme weather shelters as “messy” or “chaotic” is not indicative of responsible leadership. Instead, responsible leadership involves acknowledging the urgent need for these facilities and taking proactive steps to ensure that they are available and accessible to those in need.

Effective leaders understand the importance of providing support and resources during times of crisis, such as extreme weather events. They work to facilitate cooperation among various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community members, to establish and maintain safe spaces for individuals experiencing homelessness or other vulnerabilities during severe weather.

Furthermore, responsible leadership entails demonstrating empathy and advocating for the most vulnerable members of the community. This can involve allocating resources, coordinating volunteers, and working closely with relevant organizations to address the immediate needs of those impacted by extreme weather.

By embracing these principles, leaders can demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of the community and set a positive example for others to follow. Ultimately, responsible leadership in this context requires prioritizing human life and safety above any concerns about inconvenience or disorder.

Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society

The love story of the Good Shepherd in the Bible is found in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 15, where Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep. In this story, the Good Shepherd goes out to find one lost sheep out of a flock of 100. When he finds the lost sheep, he joyfully brings it back to the fold and celebrates its return.

The meaning of the 99 and the lost 1 in this parable has both literal and symbolic significance. Literally, the shepherd had 100 sheep and one went missing, leaving 99 behind. This illustrates the concept of individual value and care, as the shepherd did not settle for the 99 and neglect the lost one. Symbolically, the 99 can represent those who are already part of the flock, while the lost 1 represents someone who has strayed or been separated from the group.

In a broader sense, the parable conveys the message of God’s unfailing love and concern for each individual. The Good Shepherd represents Jesus, who is willing to leave the safety of the 99 to search for the one that is lost. This reflects the idea of God’s relentless pursuit of those who are lost, regardless of how small or insignificant they may seem in the eyes of the world.

Furthermore, the parable also highlights the value of every single person in the eyes of God. It emphasizes that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love and grace. The shepherd’s actions demonstrate the lengths to which God is willing to go to bring back those who have gone astray, showcasing the depth of God’s love for all people.

Overall, the love story of the Good Shepherd and the meaning of the 99 and the lost 1 in the Bible convey the profound message of unconditional love, redemption, and the individual worth of each person in the eyes of God.

The act of giving and the love Manna demonstrates through their passionate commitment to changing lives for the homeless and those at risk is truly remarkable. By providing essential resources such as food, clothing, tarps, tents, bicycles, foot care, and spiritual hope, Manna embodies the transformative power of compassion and support.

The love of giving is a profound expression of empathy and generosity that has the ability to uplift individuals and communities in need. Manna’s dedication to this cause not only addresses the immediate physical needs of the homeless and at-risk populations, but also fosters a sense of dignity, hope, and connection that can often be overlooked.

The provision of food ensures that basic nutritional requirements are met, while the distribution of clothing and tarps offers protection from the elements, promoting safety and well-being. Tents and bicycles provide shelter and transportation, empowering individuals to seek opportunities for stability and progression. Additionally, foot care contributes to the overall health and comfort of those who may struggle with access to proper hygiene and healthcare.

However, Manna goes beyond material assistance by offering spiritual hope, acknowledging the holistic nature of humanity. This spiritual support can provide a sense of purpose, belonging, and emotional resilience, helping individuals find the strength to navigate their circumstances and strive for positive change.

Ultimately, Manna’s multifaceted approach to giving reflects a deep understanding of the complex challenges faced by the homeless and at-risk individuals. By addressing various aspects of their needs and well-being, Manna not only makes a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve, but also cultivates a profound sense of community and compassion.

The love expressed through these acts of giving is transformative, as it not only meets immediate needs but also nurtures the potential for long-term positive change. By valuing the inherent worth of every individual and extending a helping hand without judgment, Manna exemplifies the boundless impact of love in action, inspiring others to join in creating a more compassionate and supportive world.

Robin Campbell
Manna Homeless Society

• Oceanside Community with the SPCA has a place for dogs and cats that need care.
• North Island Wildlife is the place to bring injured wildlife needing a second chance.

Both places at times it can become messy and chaotic, but both exist doing the best they can. The idea of potential “messiness and chaos” should not be a barrier to providing shelter for human beings in need. Instead, it calls for thoughtful planning, community engagement, and collaboration among various stakeholders to create safe and supportive environments for all individuals, regardless of their species.

It’s essential to recognize the value of compassion, dignity, and empathy when considering the needs of vulnerable populations, including both humans and animals.🕊️🙏