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As winter's chill sets in across Canada, cities are grappling with the profound issue of homelessness, particularly in harsh weather conditions. One shining example of an effective response to this pressing need is the winter weather shelter initiative successfully implemented in various Canadian cities. Such programs not only provide immediate relief but also pave the way for long-term solutions. Located strategically throughout urban areas, these shelters offer a warm, safe-haven for those in need. They are not just places to sleep; they create an environment of dignity and respect, where guests can access vital resources. Partnering with local organizations, including health services and job training programs, these shelters address the holistic needs of the homeless community. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, winter weather shelters have significantly reduced the number of individuals exposed to life-threatening temperatures. In Toronto, the introduction of temporary warming centers led to a 60% decrease in cold-related illnesses among the homeless population. The collaboration between city councils, non-profit organizations, and volunteers has fostered a sense of community, making it easier to connect vulnerable individuals with longer-term support services. The logistics of running these shelters, such as securing funding, engaging volunteers, and ensuring proper safety protocols, are often challenging. However, the results speak for themselves—saved lives and restored hope. As we look towards the future, it is crucial for the Oceanside area city council to prioritize establishing a winter weather shelter. By investing in a local winter weather shelter, our community can ensure that every individual has access to safety and warmth during the harsh winter months. It's an essential step towards building a more compassionate community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We urge our city council and Mayor to take this initiative seriously. Join us in advocating for a winter weather shelter that embodies the spirit of care and responsibility. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable residents and transform Oceanside into a model of compassion and resilience. Let’s rally together to show our local leaders that providing shelter during the winter is not just an option—it is a necessity. By acting now, we can create a future where no one has to face the bitter cold alone. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com   Or  cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O.   Box  389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

The tendency for some people to prioritize helping animals over aiding humans in need can be deeply rooted in a mix of emotional, cultural, and psychological factors. Many individuals feel a strong emotional connection to animals, often perceiving them as innocent and vulnerable beings. This perception fosters a protective instinct that can be more pronounced than the one directed toward fellow humans, especially those who are homeless or at risk. There’s also a societal narrative that paints animals as pure and deserving of compassion, while the complex circumstances surrounding human hardship can lead to feelings of suspicion or judgment. This sentiment is further exacerbated by media portrayals and political rhetoric that frame poverty and homelessness as a personal failure rather than a systemic issue. From a young age, children absorb messages about “us versus them.” Politicians and social narratives often amplify fears and stereotypes about marginalized groups, depicting them as threats or as people who will take advantage of charity. This creates a distancing effect that hampers empathy and fosters a sense of fear—essentially leading individuals to feel safer and more justified in helping animals, who appear untainted by societal flaws. Moreover, supporting animal welfare often feels like a straightforward act of kindness, free from the moral complexities associated with helping humans in difficult situations. It can feel simpler to save a stray dog than to navigate the complexities of human relationships, addiction, mental health, and social justice issues. That said, this choice reflects a troubling dichotomy: an innate desire to love and care for one another is often eclipsed by fear and societal conditioning that fosters division rather than unity. At the core of this is a fundamental conflict between love and fear. The human experience is characterized by the capacity for deep empathy and connection, yet external narratives can distort that innate sense of community. Reframing how we view and address social issues may help bridge this divide, allowing love to prevail over fear, and promoting a more holistic approach to compassion that encompasses both humans and animals. After all, the essence of humanity lies in our ability to care for one another, regardless of species. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com   Or  cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O.   Box  389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

One of the bigger challenges that Manna Homeless Society faces with the homeless of Parksville is Trench foot, often referred to in some contexts as "street feet," is a painful and potentially debilitating condition that affects individuals, particularly the homeless, in areas like Parksville. This condition arises from prolonged exposure to wet and cold environments, leading to tissue damage in the feet. For the homeless population of Parksville, the risk of developing trench foot increases significantly due to inadequate shelter and prolonged periods spent in damp conditions. The Parksville area, with its wet climate, can exacerbate this situation, leaving individuals very vulnerable. The symptoms of trench foot include swelling, numbness, and a feeling of heaviness in the feet. As it progresses, the skin can become red or blotchy, and blisters may form. In severe cases, tissue can die, leading to serious infections that may necessitate amputation. The psychological impact is equally distressing, as individuals may experience feelings of despair and hopelessness from dealing with such a painful condition without access to adequate medical care. Preventive measures are critical but often difficult to implement for those living on the streets. Access to dry socks, proper footwear, and warm shelters can help mitigate the risk, but these resources are scarce in Parksville. As a community, understanding and addressing the challenges faced by the homeless in managing conditions like trench foot is vital to improving their overall well-being. Raising awareness, providing resources, and fostering compassion can make a significant difference in the lives of those suffering in Parksville and Oceanside area. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com   Or  cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O.   Box  389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

Nikki Morton and Brian Boyes both saw Manna's recent appeal for heavy duty tarps, suitable for shelter. Nikki put together a 50/50 fundraiser and Brian approached a wholesaler for a hot deal. The fundraiser paid for 52 tarps and donations brought the number up to 93 tarps. "The tarps only provide shelter and some comfort, but it's nothing close to a solution. Thank you Manna for DELIVERING the comfort, support and health services where they are needed. Thank you for pursuing real solutions."

As winter's chill settles over Parksville, a disturbing trend emerges that casts a shadow over our community’s commitment to compassion and inclusivity. As temperatures drop, so too does our compassion for the most vulnerable among us. City officials are digging their heels in, creating an environment that makes establishing a winter shelter for our less fortunate citizens a Herculean task. The need for shelter is increasingly urgent. Every year, as it goes from being soaking wet to frostbite, the tangible threats of Horrific rainfall to icy sidewalks transform into obstacles for those without homes. The call for a dedicated winter shelter grows louder. Unfortunately, city officials’ reluctance to embrace a solution has left many questioning whether we have truly prioritized the well-being of all our citizens. While the city may have various concerns—be it zoning laws, potential community pushback, or funding hurdles—the reality is that human lives are at stake. Our streets should not be a refuge for despair but rather a place where our community extends a hand to lift those who have fallen on hard times. A winter shelter would provide a safe haven, warmth, and dignity to individuals battling the harsh realities of homelessness. Moreover, the consequences of inaction are profound. As temperatures plunge, the risk of hypothermia and related health issues escalates, placing additional burdens on our healthcare system and emergency services. Our city's reputation as a community that cares hangs in the balance, and the neglect of our most vulnerable could tarnish it irreparably. It’s essential for our officials to recognize that prioritizing a winter shelter is not merely an act of charity—it's a moral obligation. The approach to homelessness requires empathy, understanding, and innovative thinking. We must come together to create solutions that reflect our values as a community. This winter, as the snow begins to fall and the temperatures continue to drop, let us remember that the fate of our poor citizens rests in our hands. Parksville cannot afford to ignore this pressing issue any longer. The dark days ahead can be avoided if our leaders choose to take a stand for compassion and take the necessary steps to make a winter shelter a reality. The time for action is now. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com Or  cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society P.O. Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

On Friday, October 11th, 2024, a crowd amassed outside of City Hall in Parksville to urge the Mayor and City Council of Parksville to implement a safe, warm, dry shelter for those in need. As we move into the cold, wet and later, snowy weather, it is critical to act now! To see more of our articles on this issue, dating back as far back as 8 years ago (2016) when we first started posting articles,   CLICK HERE!

The following message was sent to those who participated in an innovative open-hearted event that took place here in our community:

Bernie, a homeless senior living in the Oceanside area, who is living in Parksville, faces a multitude of horrors and fears on a daily basis due to his poverty and lack of stable housing. The challenges and difficulties he encounters are not only physical but also deeply psychological and emotional. One of the most immediate horrors that Bernie faces is the constant threat of violence and abuse while living on the streets. Homeless individuals are often targeted by criminals looking to take advantage of their vulnerable situation. Bernie must constantly be on guard, never truly able to relax or feel safe in his surroundings. In addition to the fear of violence, Bernie also struggles with the elements, especially during harsh weather conditions. Whether it's extreme heat, cold, or rain, being homeless means having no access to shelter and protection from the elements. Bernie is forced to endure these conditions, risking his health and well-being every day. Another fear that plagues Bernie is the lack of basic necessities such as food, clean water, and proper hygiene. Without a stable income or access to resources, he must rely on charity and goodwill to meet his most basic needs. The uncertainty of where his next meal will come from or where he can find a safe place to rest weighs heavily on Bernie's mind. Furthermore, Bernie faces the stigma and judgment of society for being homeless. He experiences discrimination, isolation, and dehumanization from those who do not understand or empathize with his situation. This social exclusion has led to feelings of shame, hopelessness, and worthlessness, exacerbating Bernie's already dire circumstances. Moreover, the lack of access to healthcare and mental health services further compounds Bernie's fears and challenges. As a homeless individual, he struggles to receive proper medical attention, leading to untreated illnesses or injuries. The toll of living without adequate healthcare has been devastating, both physically and emotionally. Overall, Bernie's experiences as a poor and homeless individual in the Oceanside area, particularly in Parksville, are filled with horrors and fears that most people cannot fathom. From the constant threat of violence and abuse to the struggle for basic necessities and the burden of societal stigma, Bernie's daily life is a harrowing ordeal. It is crucial for society to address the root causes of homelessness and poverty to prevent others from facing similar horrors and fears in the future. 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

Our club is called "Rotary Interact Club." We are a group of high school students from Ballenas Secondary School who have a passion for helping others and practicing "Service Above Self." Thank you so much! We look forward to collaborating on more events like this in the future!

Even if there was an Extreme Weather Shelter it would be Unavailable and seniors would be left out in the cold... Despite poor conditions they wouldn’t be severe enough to qualify for opening the shelter... As the weather takes a turn for the worse, residents and Seniors in our community are facing challenging conditions without adequate shelter options. Despite the urgent need for an extreme weather shelter to provide refuge during harsh conditions, it would remain unopened due to failing to meet the necessary criteria, leaving many vulnerable seniors exposed to the elements. The current weather conditions are severe, with temperatures plummeting and precipitation intensifying. In such circumstances, the availability of a designated all-weather shelter could make a significant difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of those in need. However, the unfortunate reality is there is no existing shelter, which should serve as a lifeline during such emergencies, and is unable to fulfill its purpose as it does not exist, and wouldn’t meet the required conditions for opening because conditions to operate they say aren’t severe enough. The absence of a functional weather shelter raises serious concerns about the preparedness and responsiveness of our community to handle crises exacerbated by adverse weather conditions. It highlights the importance of having robust contingency plans in place to address the needs of the most vulnerable citizens during times of poor weather. Efforts must be made to rectify this situation promptly. It is imperative that authorities reevaluate the criteria for opening an all-weather shelter and take immediate steps to ensure that it can be activated when needed most. The safety and protection of all community members, especially our seniors those who are most at risk, should be a top priority. In the face of adversity, it is essential that we come together as a community to address these critical issues and work towards creating a more resilient and compassionate society. Everyone deserves access to safe shelter, particularly during poor weather conditions, and it is crucial that our systems are equipped to provide support when it is needed most. As we navigate through these challenging times, let us advocate for the necessary changes to ensure that no one is left out in the cold. Together, we can strive to create a community that is prepared, responsive, and supportive of all its members, regardless of the weather conditions. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Donations can be made by e-transfer mannaparksville@gmail.com Our cheques can be sent to Manna Homeless Society Box 389 Errington BC VOR-1VO

The following links are to newspaper articles featuring the homeless of Oceanside.
(Articles that also include recognition for Manna’s work with the homeless may be found here. Dates: 2011-2016) Rotary helps the homeless in Parksville John Harding, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2016-11-03 The Parksville Rotary Club’s executive and directors voted unanimously to donate their Beachfest money to Manna, which provides clothes, tents, food and other items to the homeless and needy of the region. THURSDAY SPOTLIGHT: More homeless, fewer services in Parksville Qualicum Beach John Harding, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2016-10-20 Manna provides the needy of Parksville Qualicum Beach with tents, clothing, footwear — as many items as they can get from generous individuals and companies in the region. Campbell said Manna is seeing an increase in the number of people taking advantage of their hand-outs.“We are seeing more elderly, women and youth than ever before,” said Campbell. Parksville Museum helping Manna help the homeless Auren Ruvinsky, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2015-10-25 He said their used bike program is going great, having passed more than 100 bikes on from people who weren’t using them to people throughout the region who now use them as essential transportation. Big increase stems from women escaping abuse, families and the elderly in Parksville Qualicum Beach Robin Campbell (our co-founder), Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2015-09-24 There is no one solution to the problems of the less fortunate in Parksville Qualicum Beach, but with the community’s continued help we will continue to serve the less fortunate seven days a week with 100 per cent volunteer help and with all gifts and money going directly to the less fortunate. EDITORIAL: Daniel’s story John Harding, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2015-09-24 Daniel Farmer would enjoy having a more traditional place to lay his head at night.For now, he’s thankful for the large, old willow tree on city-owned property at the corner of Jensen Avenue and the Alberni Highway. He’s also grateful for the tent provided to him by the Manna Homeless Society. Maggy’s many challenges include being homeless in Parksville Candace Wu, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2015-05-07 “The Manna Van covers a huge umbrella and so does the SOS and the Salvation Army, but they’re still not meeting the amount of homeless people there are,” she said. Wheels can do wonders for the homeless of Parksville Qualicum Beach Lissa Alexander, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2014-06-10 Robin Campbell with Manna Homeless Society is asking the public to donate their old bikes (in good working order) to people in need.[…]“I know so many people that need bikes and it will change their quality of life—it will just be so wonderful,” he said. Number of homeless increasing in Parksville Qualicum Beach Lissa Alexander, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2014-04-01 The Oceanside Task Force on Homelessness started four years ago when Robin Campbell showed the Qualicum Beach mayor a home video showing the deplorable conditions where some local residents were living.Campbell, who also co-founded Manna Homeless Society, was giving out food and survival gear to local people in the video. After watching it, the mayor, Teunis Westbroek, gave it to then-Parksville mayor, Ed Mayne.“Ed Mayne watched it and he told me when he saw it that he cried,” Westbroek said at a public meeting held by the Task Force in Parksville on Thursday. Poverty in Paradise — what services are available Lissa Alexander, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2014-03-13 Homeless co-ordinator Sarah Poole said one of the biggest gaps in services for homeless and those at risk of homelessness in the area is consistent food service.“There’s no (free) breakfast, there’s limited dinners and on the weekend there’s nothing.”That’s why Robin Campbell and Karras started parking the Manna Homeless Van on the streets of Parksville Saturday mornings four years ago, she said. Battling child poverty in Parksville Qualicum Beach Lissa Alexander, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2014-02-27 Witten, her partner and her step-daughter, make use of local services including the Manna Homeless Society’s van that provides donated food and other survival gear to those that are homeless and living in poverty Saturday mornings on Hirst Street in Parksville. THURSDAY SPOTLIGHT: People, places and issues of the Parksville Qualicum Beach Lissa Alexander, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2013-11-28 Campbell and Steve Karras have been stocking the van with food, blankets and other equipment for the homeless and those in need for the last four years, parking on the streets of Parksville Saturday mornings with a sign reading “Free Food.”Everything they give out is donated and they are often short on the necessities, which right now includes tents, sleeping bags and other cold weather gear. Help available for the homeless but every case is different Auren Ruvinsky, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2012-11-16 The NEWS met Bob while he was being helped by Robin Campbell and the Mana Ministries van, which circulates in the region distributing basic emergency supplies like tents and sleeping bags, which Campbell said they could always use more of. Woman in her 60s, her cat and dog, living under a tarp in ErringtonBrad Bird, Oceanside Star, 2012-03-29 [Article no longer online] Len Nixon has some news for people who don’t know or think there are homeless people in Oceanside.He has a homeless woman living in his backyard in Errington, he said Wednesday, and has been doing all he can to help her find accommodation.[…]Nixon said Robin Campbell of Manna Ministry has been helping her with supplies, and other church people offered her a tent, which she declined. Storms hurting the needy Brenda Gough, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2012-01-24 [Article no longer online] Campbell said the people his ministry try to assist are not alcoholics or drug addicts, they are just people down on their luck.“Some of them have been abused, some have lost their jobs and some have jobs but it is not enough to support their families.” Helping the homeless Lissa Alexander, Parksville Qualicum Beach News, 2011-09-09 [Article no longer online] The homeless in our area need tents, food and medical attention, according to Robin Campbell at Manna Ministry, and the organization is putting out a plea to the public to step forward with donations.

Dear Community, We come to you today with a sincere plea for assistance out of love and compassion for those who are facing difficult times. We have individuals within our community who are in desperate need of shelter, of a safe place to call home. Due to circumstances beyond their control, they find themselves without the basic necessity of housing. We are humbly asking for your support in providing trailers, motor homes, and campers for these individuals to live in. Your generous donation can make a significant difference in the lives of those who are struggling to find stability and security. While we are unable to provide tax receipts for your contributions, we can assure you that your kindness will have a direct and positive impact on the lives of those in need. Your act of giving will not only provide shelter but also offer hope and dignity to those who are experiencing hardship. Together, as a caring and compassionate community, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbours in need. Your support, no matter how big or small, will be greatly appreciated and will help create a brighter future for those who are currently facing uncertainty. Thank you for considering our plea for help. Your generosity and support will truly make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Any questions or to donate a trailer/motorhome/camper, call: Robin 250.248.0845 With gratitude and 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