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Layne Collinson, owner of Heart of Glass who makes these beautiful original glass stained glass ❤️ hearts, has raised close to $25,000.00 for the homeless over the last 5 years. Layne, who covers all the costs and donates all the proceeds to Manna Homeless Society, is a Blessing to the community.

Manna Homeless Society was providing essential survival items to help those in need during extreme weather conditions last night. The wide range of items we are distributing such as coats, tents, sleeping bags, tarps, shoes, socks, food energy, drinks, gloves, and hats are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals facing homelessness or exposure to harsh weather. Coats and warm clothing are important for keeping individuals protected from cold temperatures, while tents and sleeping bags offer shelter and a comfortable place to rest. Tarps can also provide additional protection from wind and rain. Shoes and socks are essential for maintaining foot health and preventing issues like trench foot. Providing food energy and drinks helps ensure individuals have the necessary nutrition and hydration to stay healthy. Gloves and hats are vital for protecting extremities like hands and ears in extremely cold conditions. By offering these items, Manna Homeless Society is not only meeting immediate needs but also showing care and support to those experiencing homelessness. Your efforts are making a significant difference in the lives of those who may otherwise be exposed to serious risks during extreme weather situations. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e -transfer to: mannaparksville@gmail.com Cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society Box 389 Errington BC VOR-1VO

Let’s break down the reasons people are homeless and why towns and cities may refuse to care for them: And offer a solution… Top 5 Reasons People Are Homeless: **Lack of Affordable Housing:** The shortage of affordable housing is a significant factor contributing to homelessness. High rental costs, low wages, and limited housing assistance programs can force individuals and families onto the streets. **Poverty:** Poverty is a root cause of homelessness. People living in poverty often lack the financial resources to maintain stable housing, access healthcare, or cover basic needs. **Mental Illness:** Mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression can lead to homelessness when individuals do not receive proper treatment and support. **Substance Abuse:** Drug and alcohol addiction can contribute to homelessness by impairing decision-making abilities, straining relationships with family and friends, and leading to job loss. **Domestic Violence:** Survivors of domestic violence may become homeless as they escape abusive situations and struggle to find safe and stable housing. Top 5 Reasons Towns and Cities Refuse to Care for the Homeless: **NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) Syndrome:** Some communities resist homeless shelters or services due to fears of decreased property values, increased crime rates, or negative effects on local businesses. **Budget Constraints:** Towns and cities may cite limited financial resources as a reason for not providing adequate support for the homeless population. **Stigma and Discrimination:** Negative stereotypes and misconceptions about homelessness can lead to discrimination against homeless individuals, making it challenging to garner public support for homeless initiatives. **Lack of Coordination:** Inefficient coordination among government agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations can hinder efforts to address homelessness comprehensively. **Political Will:** A lack of political will and leadership at the local level can result in inadequate policies and resources dedicated to homelessness prevention and intervention. A Solution to Shelter the Homeless in a Loving Way: To address homelessness compassionately and effectively, communities can implement the following strategies: **Housing First Approach:** Prioritize providing stable housing to homeless individuals without preconditions such as sobriety or employment. Housing stability is essential for individuals to address other challenges effectively. **Wraparound Services:** Offer comprehensive support services such as mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, job training, and healthcare to address the underlying causes of homelessness and help individuals rebuild their lives. **Community Collaboration:** Foster partnerships between government agencies, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, businesses, and community members to coordinate efforts, share resources, and maximize impact in addressing homelessness. **Education and Advocacy:** Raise awareness about the root causes of homelessness, combat stigma, and advocate for policies that prioritize affordable housing, healthcare access, and social services for vulnerable populations. **Empowerment and Dignity:** Treat homeless individuals with respect, dignity, and empathy. Involve them in decision-making processes, empower them to participate in their own recovery journey, and provide opportunities for social inclusion and community engagement. By adopting a holistic, human-centered approach that combines housing solutions with supportive services and community engagement, towns and cities can create a more compassionate and sustainable system to care for the homeless population. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

The issue of small cities experiencing a surge in unaffordable housing while lacking adequate water resources to sustain the community is a complex and pressing problem that requires urgent attention and innovative solutions. The confluence of these two challenges can have far-reaching consequences on the livability and sustainability of such small cities. Firstly, the increasing unaffordability of housing in small cities can be attributed to various factors such as rapid urbanization, limited housing supply, influx of wealthier residents, and speculative real estate practices. As a result, many long-time residents may find themselves priced out of their own communities, leading to social displacement and inequality. Meanwhile, the inadequate water infrastructure in these small cities exacerbates the situation by placing additional strain on already limited resources. Water scarcity can be caused by a combination of factors including population growth, climate change, aging infrastructure, and mismanagement of water resources. Without sufficient access to clean and reliable water, essential services like car washes, as well as basic human needs, can be compromised. In this scenario, the closure of car washes due to a lack of water serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic issues in small cities. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, sustainable development practices, and community engagement in addressing these challenges holistically. To address the issue of unaffordable housing and water scarcity in small cities, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. This could include implementing affordable housing initiatives, promoting water conservation measures, investing in water infrastructure upgrades, fostering community partnerships, and advocating for policy changes at the local and regional levels. Furthermore, collaboration between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, non-profit organizations, and community members is essential to develop comprehensive strategies that balance the needs of residents, businesses, and the environment. By taking a proactive and inclusive approach to addressing these challenges, small cities can work towards creating more equitable, sustainable, and resilient communities for current and future generations. In conclusion, the convergence of unaffordable housing and water scarcity in small cities presents a critical test of governance, planning, and resource management. By acknowledging the interconnected nature of these challenges and mobilizing collective action, small cities can strive towards a more sustainable and inclusive future where all residents have access to affordable housing, clean water, and thriving communities. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

It is crucial to recognize that homeless individuals are human beings who deserve empathy, understanding, and support in Parksville. Viewing homelessness as solely a problem rather than seeing the individuals involved as humans in need can lead to dehumanization and a lack of compassion. When shelters are not provided and buildings not made available or accessible, the number of people experiencing homelessness can indeed increase. Lack of shelter options can leave individuals vulnerable to the elements, safety concerns, and health risks. Without proper resources and assistance, the cycle of homelessness can perpetuate, making it even more challenging for individuals to break free from the circumstances that led to their sad situation. Efforts to address homelessness should involve a holistic approach that includes providing stable housing options, access to mental health services, job training programs, substance abuse treatment, and social support systems. By addressing the root causes of homelessness and offering comprehensive solutions, we can work towards reducing the number of individuals experiencing homelessness and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and security. In the PQ News November 1st 2023, Mayor Doug stated overnight shelters and warmings stations caused havoc and he was drawing a line in the sand. Which he did. He was going to offer a permanent solution… no more dirty Band-Aid.. Mayor Doug states… However, last winter neither a building was made available for a shelter nor even a warming station to get reprieve from the cold. The solution Mayor Doug offered was the ‘Red House Blue House’ proposal. There was actually eight different colours of houses depending on the needs of the individuals that were creating the homeless situation… Very sad to say, not only did we not have a shelter for the first time in years but none of these houses materialized. As a result, many people became sick due to weather conditions and some passed away. Sadly, there was a team of people ready to run a shelter and warming station. The shelter finances were available and the Insurance was in place, but the city wouldn’t give up a building. This winter we have an opportunity to bring back the dirty bandage until these houses are provided. This lack of care is only making Parksville very unsafe for all the community. We still have time to prepare for this coming winter and make sure we don’t have a repeat of this horrible disaster we faced last winter. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

As we enter this troubled world each day it’s easy to see its becoming darker as we are most certainly on the brink of collapse, economically, mentally, and physically and sadly spiritually where people are clinging to the thinnest of threads, as it has become crucial to treat one another with love and a kindness, empathy, and compassion that you would desire for yourself. The metaphorical thread that connects all individuals represents not just their resilience but also their interconnectedness and dependence on each other for support and survival. As these tensions are rising and these uncertainties loom large, and small acts of kindness can make a significant difference right now in someone’s life. A kind word, a helping hand, or a gesture of understanding can serve as a lifeline for those feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of this unstable world. One must recognize and realize each person is like a vital piece of fabric in the intricate tapestry of society, and when one thread is weakened, it will affect the strength and stability of the entire structure. By recognizing the fragility of the human experience in such turbulent times, we need to cultivate a sense of unity, solidarity, and mutual respect for one another. When every individual feels valued and supported, they are more likely to find the strength to persevere through adversity and contribute positively to their communities. It is essential to remember that we are all connected and that our actions have the power to either reinforce and build up or weaken and destroy even more of the threads that bind us together. Therefore, today we are in a world facing imminent collapse in all these areas , and the way we treat others will determine whether we unravel in chaos or we band together in resilience. By nurturing a culture of love, and kindness and compassion, where we would strengthen the threads of humanity and build a more sustainable foundation for a better future. But for this to happen each individual is indeed that crucial piece of thread, holding onto hope and reaching out for that connection in a world that’s on the edge of something very dangerous and dark…🌍 It is a choice we all must choose. Will it be Love, Blessings and Compassion as we challenge ourselves or do we do nothing, or do we fight the good fight? Again it’s our choice… Lots of love, Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

Parksville is facing a troubling situation where water restrictions were implemented in April while the construction of unaffordable condos continues at a record pace. This position only highlights the urgent need for affordable housing in the region and the challenges that arise from balancing essential resources like water shortages already with the demand for sustainable development. How many duplicated studies does one City need when the whole city knows that there is a water shortage… How many people living on the streets and in their cars and other vehicles before we say we need affordable housing. There are several reasons why there is an emergency need for affordable housing in Parksville: **Rising Housing Costs**: The cost of housing in Parksville has been steadily increasing, making it difficult for many residents to afford suitable accommodation. This has led to issues of homelessness, overcrowding, and housing insecurity in the community. **Population Growth**: The population of Parksville is growing, which puts further pressure on the housing market. As more people move to the region for work or retirement, the demand for housing, particularly affordable options, continues to rise. **Income Disparities**: There is a significant disparity between incomes in Parksville, with many residents struggling to make ends meet. Affordable housing options are crucial to ensuring that individuals and families with lower incomes have access to safe and stable housing. **Social Impact**: Lack of affordable housing can have far-reaching social consequences, including increased stress, mental health issues, and strain on community resources. By providing affordable housing options, communities like Parksville can promote social cohesion and well-being. **Economic Development**: Access to affordable housing is essential for attracting and retaining a diverse workforce in Parksville. Without affordable housing options, businesses may struggle to find employees, hindering economic growth and development in the region. The construction of unaffordable condos at a record pace in Parksville signifies a step in the wrong direction towards addressing the housing crisis. However, this lack progress must also be balanced with considerations for water usage and environmental sustainability. Implementing water restrictions in April reflects the the troubling problems with the city’s commitment to managing its resources responsibly and ensuring long-term environmental health. Ultimately, the challenge lies in finding a harmonious balance between meeting the urgent need for affordable housing and safeguarding essential resources like water. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, developers, community organizations, and residents will be crucial in addressing these complex issues and creating a sustainable and inclusive future for Parksville. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

Parksville, a quaint coastal city nestled in Vancouver Island’s picturesque landscape, is currently grappling with a surge in homelessness that has left many community members mostly seniors vulnerable and exposed to the elements as the middle class is being bumped into the poor class of our community… For years, an extreme weather shelter had been provided as a crucial lifeline for those citizens without a roof over their heads during harsh winter nights. However, under the watch of the new mayor, controversy has erupted as plans are unveiled to shut down this vital resource again for this coming winter. The closure of the extreme weather shelter has sparked outrage among residents and advocacy groups who argue that the decision will only exacerbate the already dire situation faced by the homeless population in Parksville. With the loss of at least 7 lives last winter due to the harsh decision to not allow a shelter and to make a building available when money and teams were ready to run an extreme weather shelter this was unconscionable. With temperatures beginning to drop and winter slowly approaching, concerns are mounting about the lack of safe and warm refuge for those in need and the lack of response from City Hall to make sure that this tragedy doesn’t happen again… In response to these concerns, Mayor Doug has defended the decision to close the shelter, citing safety concerns and the need for a more sustainable solution to address homelessness in the long term. The mayor has proposed alternative measures to support the homeless community, including increased outreach services, affordable housing initiatives, and mental health support programs but has not delivered. Despite these assurances, many remain skeptical of the mayor’s plan and fear that without the immediate provision of emergency shelter, vulnerable individuals will be left out in the cold. Again creating an unsafe and uncertain environment for all citizens of Parksville… Advocates have called for urgent action to reinstate the extreme weather shelter or establish interim solutions to ensure that no one citizen is left to suffer on the streets. As we’ve only been a witness to more suffering in the Parksville area as we want our streets safe again. Punishing the poor citizens in this community for not having affordable housing and not having a residence, is not the answer… Taking away what little help they had with the extreme shelter only took lives as we weren’t able to see the most vulnerable and get them into hospital or emergency care as the extreme weather shelter was taken away from us. As discussions continue to unfold between city officials, residents, and advocacy groups, the fate of Parksville’s homeless population hangs in the balance. The closure of the extreme weather shelter serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive and compassionate approaches to address homelessness and provide support to those most in need within the community. With winter coming there is still time to address this urgency to find a resolution… As Parksville navigates this critical moment, the spotlight remains fixed on how the City will respond to the cries for help from its most vulnerable residents… Please join us to fight this atrocity against the poor and financially strapped citizens of our community. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

When advocating for the homeless and those at risk, especially in a situation where local authorities are considering removing them from their current location, it is crucial to approach the situation strategically and empathetically. Here are some steps you can take to fight in a determined and effective manner, often referred to as “kamikaze style,” while supporting the homeless and at-risk individuals: **Build a Coalition**: Form a coalition of like-minded individuals and organizations that also support the cause of helping the homeless and at-risk populations. Strength in numbers can make your advocacy efforts more impactful. **Raise Awareness**: Use various platforms such as social media, community events, and local media to raise awareness about the situation faced by the homeless individuals in Parksville. Educate the public about their rights and the importance of providing support and resources to this vulnerable population. **Engage in Dialogue**: Initiate discussions with the mayor, council members, and other relevant stakeholders to understand their reasons for wanting to relocate the homeless individuals. Present alternative solutions and highlight the potential negative consequences of displacement on the affected individuals. **Legal Advocacy**: Seek legal advice or assistance from advocacy groups to understand the legal rights of the homeless individuals and explore legal avenues to challenge the relocation decision if it violates their rights. **Direct Action**: Consider organizing peaceful protests, sit-ins, or other forms of non-violent direct action to draw attention to the issue and put pressure on decision-makers to reconsider their stance. **Collaborate with Advocacy Groups**: Partner with local advocacy groups, shelters, and non-profit organizations that specialize in supporting the homeless population. By collaborating with established entities, you can leverage their experience and resources to strengthen your advocacy efforts. **Humanize the Issue**: Share personal stories and testimonies from homeless individuals to humanize the issue and create empathy among the public and decision-makers. Personal narratives can be powerful tools for driving change. **Mobilize the Community**: Mobilize community members, volunteers, and supporters to stand in solidarity with the homeless individuals facing relocation. Organize community meetings, rallies, or fundraisers to demonstrate widespread support for the cause. **Document and Monitor**: Document any instances of mistreatment, discrimination, or violations of rights against the homeless individuals during the relocation process. Monitoring the situation closely can help hold authorities accountable and provide evidence for legal challenges if needed. **Persist and Adapt**: Advocacy efforts may face obstacles and setbacks, but it is essential to persist in your mission to support the homeless and at-risk individuals. Be prepared to adapt your strategies and tactics based on the evolving circumstances and feedback received from the community. By combining these approaches and taking a determined yet compassionate stance, you can effectively fight for the rights and well-being of the homeless and at-risk individuals in Parksville, even in the face of opposition from local authorities. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer: mannaparksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

Good afternoon, I just came back from the Orca Place fifth year anniversary held down at the shelter in the park – it was a great event. I was able to chat with Gord Johns, Adam Walker, and Doug – our mayor. Both Gord and Adam affirmed that the homeless shelter issue is a city initiative and not a province or federal task – the province provides funds through BC Housing and the Feds will offer grants upon request for permanent projects. Both said talk to the mayor – so I did. There are no federal or provincial laws mandating cities to have shelters, but there are recommendations. I went up to Doug and said that October is soon here and I don’t want to see this year happen like last year when seven people died contributed because there was no shelter. He said that the city helped provide ‘cooling down’ shelters this summer – so I asked what will the city do for cold weather shelters this winter. Doug tried to say it was the province’s job. I said the city has bylaws that say a shelter can’t be in a commercial, private or residential space; he agreed – saying it was to protect the community. I said so tell me what facility can be used – he couldn’t. He got rather heated and I kept pressuring him to name a facility that could be used for a shelter. I said we have the funding in place through BC Housing and there are two organizations willing to run it. I also said that VIP Hotel was a provincial project that the city shut down – he said it was for safety concerns. He said the Bradley Centre – I said it’s too far out of town no one can get to it and it has programs – like he knows – that are for vulnerable populations – elderly and children. He said the CFC church – I said, it was for one week between Christmas and New Years because they also work with vulnerable populations seniors, and children. I said churches aren’t available because they have regular programs with vulnerable populations – elderly and children. I kept asking him to identify a facility – he wouldn’t. He said I was harassing him and he would get the police officer – Trevor – to move me out of the place. I didn’t raise my voice, and everyone heard the interchange – I kept pressing for a facility to be identified and he got angry. Both Violet – ICCS Director and Gord Johns mentioned the need for a shelter as there was not a shelter last year – but Doug didn’t respond. So, we’re left with no commitment from the city to offer a facility or help find one. The city has tied up the purpose built space at Orca Place through legal red tape – so at this point there is no shelter coming this fall and winter. I think the only thing we can do at this point is to encourage people to move to places that have shelters or be prepared to offer winter survival gear. With confidence we can say – there will not be a cold weather shelter in Parksville this year and the city refuses to participate in the process of securing space for one. Likely, more will die because of this neglect. Not very thankful at the moment, Jerrold