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Refusing to provide a space for poor weather conditions for human beings in the winter months can have severe consequences both directly and indirectly. Some of the worst natural consequences include: **Loss of Life**: One of the most immediate and tragic consequences of not providing shelter during poor winter weather is the increased risk of hypothermia, , and other cold-and snowy and rainy related illnesses. Without a safe and warm place to seek refuge, individuals may face life-threatening conditions. **Health Issues**: Exposure to poor weather, snow and rain can lead to a range of health issues beyond just hypothermia. Respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and exacerbation of existing medical conditions can all arise from prolonged exposure to harsh winter conditions without proper shelter. **Increased Vulnerability**: Those who are already vulnerable, such as the elderly, children, homeless individuals, and those with physical or mental disabilities, are at a higher risk when they do not have access to shelter during poor weather events. This lack of protection can further exacerbate social inequalities and disparities. **Community Impact**: The refusal to provide shelter during poor weather can also have wider community impacts. The strain on emergency services, healthcare systems, and local resources can increase as a result of more people falling ill or needing assistance due to exposure to the cold, snow and rains.. **Long-term Consequences**: Failing to address the issue of providing shelter during poor weather conditions can have long-term consequences on the well-being and resilience of the community. It may erode trust in local authorities, damage community cohesion, and perpetuate cycles of poverty and homelessness. **Legal and Moral Ramifications**: There may also be legal and moral implications to consider. In some jurisdictions, there are laws mandating the provision of emergency shelter during poor weather events. Failing to comply with these regulations could result in legal consequences for the municipality. Overall, the decision to refuse to provide shelter during poor weather conditions can have far-reaching and devastating consequences for individuals, communities, and society as a whole. It is essential for municipalities to prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents, especially during times of crisis. 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 a society stops caring and fails to shelter those who have fallen on bad times during harsh winter months, several negative effects can be observed: **Increased Vulnerability**: Those left without support during poor weather conditions such as snow, cold, and rain are at a higher risk of illness, injury, or even death. Lack of shelter and warmth can lead to hypothermia, frostbite, respiratory issues, and other health complications. **Social Disintegration**: The refusal to care for the vulnerable can lead to increased social disparity and alienation. It can create a sense of indifference within the community, eroding trust and solidarity among its members. **Economic Consequences**: Neglecting those in need during severe weather can result in increased strain on emergency services, healthcare systems, and social welfare programs. This can lead to higher costs for the society as a whole. **Moral Decay**: When a society turns a blind eye to those suffering in extreme conditions, it reflects a moral decay and lack of empathy. It undermines the values of compassion, kindness, and solidarity that are essential for a healthy community. **Public Health Concerns**: Homelessness and exposure to harsh weather conditions can also pose public health risks. Lack of access to proper sanitation, hygiene, and healthcare can lead to the spread of diseases not only among the homeless population but also to the broader community. **Psychological Impact**: Being neglected and abandoned during difficult times can have severe psychological repercussions on individuals. It can lead to feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and despair, further perpetuating the cycle of poverty and homelessness. **Impact on Future Generations**: Children growing up in a society that neglects its vulnerable citizens may internalize these attitudes, leading to a perpetuation of social inequality and lack of empathy in future generations. In conclusion, failing to care for those who have fallen on hard times during extreme winter conditions not only impacts the immediate individuals but also has far-reaching consequences for the entire society, affecting its social fabric, economic stability, public health, and moral integrity. It is essential for a society to show compassion and provide support to all its members, especially during challenging circumstances like harsh winter weather. 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

With extreme sorrow, we at Manna Homeless Society are deeply sorry to have to report about the tragic loss of at least seven lives this winter in the Oceanside area. This tragedy is due to the lack of care during the winter, and the incapability of being able to provide the care and offering an extreme weather shelter. The loss of the extreme weather shelter meant that a safe place was not an option, where one could be cared for and then assessed to see if further care was needed. It is indeed a heartbreaking situation where the community failed to provide the necessary care and support to those in need during such extreme weather conditions.This was the first winter in many winters that the city, community volunteers and charitable organizations have not been adequately prepared with a location to care for our most vulnerable citizens the homeless…. Losing seven individuals or possibly more is a significant and devastating consequence of not having adequate measures in place to protect vulnerable members of our society. It highlights the importance of applying effective emergency response plans, especially for extreme weather events, to prevent such tragedies from occurring. It is crucial for communities to come together, address these shortcomings, and work towards implementing sustainable solutions to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, especially those who are most at risk during severe weather conditions. This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of solidarity, compassion, and proactive measures to prevent such losses in the future. We as a loving, compassionate community can never allow this tragedy to happen again. 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

Caring for homeless and drug-affected individuals, in several ways, can be likened to addressing a disease. When we neglect the needs of this vulnerable population, it can be compared to ignoring an untreated disease. Essentially similar to a disease that can worsen and spread if not cared for properly, the issues faced by the homeless and drug-addicted individuals can escalate and have widespread negative effects on both the individual and society as a whole. If we do not provide adequate care and support to our homeless and drug-affected citizens, the situation can and will deteriorate rapidly. Without adequate shelter, basic necessities, and access to healthcare, their physical and mental health can decline. This can lead to increased risks of infections, diseases, malnutrition, addiction-related complications, and even death. Furthermore, neglecting to address the root causes of homelessness and drug addiction can perpetuate a cycle of poverty, substance abuse, and social marginalization. This not only impacts the individuals directly affected but also places strain on healthcare systems, law enforcement, and social services. On the other hand, nurturing and providing care for homeless and drug-affected individuals can be seen as a form of treatment for the “disease” they are facing. By offering compassion, support, access to resources, and opportunities for rehabilitation and recovery, we can help these individuals regain their health, dignity, and hope for a better future. When we nurture and feed these individuals with love and support, we are essentially addressing the underlying issues contributing to their situation. This can help break the cycle of homelessness and drug addiction, improve their overall well-being, and reintegrate them into society as productive and healthy individuals. In essence, just as neglecting a disease can worsen its impact, failing to care for homeless and drug-affected individuals can lead to dire consequences. Conversely, by approaching these issues with empathy, care, and support, we can make a positive difference in the lives of those in need and work towards building a more compassionate and inclusive society. 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

Caring for the whole community is essential to ensure the well-being and safety of all individuals living within a specific area. In the case of the Oceanside Area, the recent tragic loss of at least 7 individuals due to a lack of care this last winter by not providing an extreme weather shelter highlights the importance of comprehensive community support systems. One of the main critical aspect of community care is the ability to assess and identify individuals who are at risk, particularly during extreme weather events. Without proper assessment mechanisms in place, vulnerable members of the community may not receive the necessary assistance and support they need to stay safe during challenging conditions. To address this issue and prevent similar tragedies in the future, it is crucial to implement effective strategies for assessing and monitoring at-risk individuals in the community. As well as providing an extreme weather shelter we could involve establishing comprehensive outreach programs, developing communication channels to reach those in need, and providing resources and assistance to support vulnerable populations during times of crisis. Additionally, investing in training programs for community members, emergency responders, and healthcare professionals can help enhance the overall preparedness and response capabilities of the Oceanside Area. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and address potential risks, communities can work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. Ultimately, caring for the whole community requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders, including local government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare providers, and community members themselves. By prioritizing community care and taking proactive measures to protect vulnerable populations, we can create a safer and more resilient Oceanside Area for all its residents. 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 important to note that treating homelessness as a crime is not a solution to the issue but rather a violation of human rights. However, if we were to discuss the different groups of individuals who may be disproportionately affected by such laws targeting the homeless population, it could include: **Poor and Low-Income Individuals**: Those who are struggling financially and may not have stable housing are at a higher risk of being rounded up and criminalized under such laws. **Mentally Ill Individuals**: Homeless individuals with mental health issues may be more likely to end up on the streets and subsequently targeted by these punitive measures. **Substance Abusers**: People battling addiction often face challenges in maintaining stable housing and may be unfairly targeted by laws aimed at criminalizing homelessness. **Veterans**: Those who have served in the military may also be disproportionately affected by homelessness, and laws criminalizing their situation can further exacerbate their struggles. **Victims of Domestic Violence**: Individuals who have escaped abusive situations and lack stable housing may find themselves on the streets and subject to these harmful laws. **Youth and LGBTQ+ Individuals**: Vulnerable populations such as homeless youth or those who identify as LGBTQ+ are at a higher risk of being targeted and criminalized under such ordinances. 7. **People with Disabilities**: Those with physical or mental disabilities may face challenges in accessing housing and support services, leading to an increased likelihood of being impacted by laws targeting the homeless. It is crucial to advocate for compassionate and effective solutions to address homelessness, such as affordable housing, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and social support programs, rather than resorting to punitive measures that only serve to perpetuate cycles of poverty and marginalization. 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

This is indeed disheartening to witness the prioritization of these luxury apartment and condo developments over the pressing need for additional care facilities for the homeless and people at risk in our communities. The construction of upscale residential properties in small cities like Parksville often exacerbates issues of affordability, displacing vulnerable populations and widening socio-economic disparities. The allocation of resources towards building more luxurious living spaces instead of investing in essential services such as homeless shelters reflects a misplaced set of priorities. The lack of adequate support systems for individuals experiencing homelessness underscores a failure in addressing fundamental social needs within our communities. It is crucial for policymakers, developers, and community members to reevaluate their focus on development projects and redirect attention towards fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. By advocating for increased funding and resources for homeless care facilities like ORCA place, we can work towards creating a more equitable and supportive environment for those in need. Sadly at this moment we could desperately use three more facilities like ORCA place or something similar… 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

Manna will soon be providing mobile medical advice to the impoverished and homeless within the Oceanside community. Most of the homeless presently do not have access to medical services. All going well, the “ Manna Community Care Mobile ” will be set up and ready to go by April, 2017. Our volunteer nurses will be providing basic medical advice at no charge. Naloxone will also be distributed to those who choose to use. Stay tuned for updates. In the mean time we have a wish list for the donation of the following items: For administration and education: Laptop computer and iPad Medical supplies: Blood pressure cuff and stethoscope, tympanic thermometer, box of tongue depressors, saline, rubber gloves, face masks, box of alcohol swabs, hydrogen peroxide, 2×2 and 4×4 wound dressing, band aids, cotton balls, antibiotic ointment, hand disinfectant, Lysol swabs, small flash lights, reading glasses, thermos and earthquake kit supplies. If you are able to help please contact us at http://www.mannahomelesssociety.com/contact/ 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

Today, friends gathered at the Manna vans to celebrate Fred’s 76th birthday. Happy Birthday, Fred!

Good evening all, It has been far too long since I’ve last given an update on what is happening. Honestly, it seems that the dark cloud of covid has forever over-shadowed what we’ve been doing. So, in an attempt to help realize that there is stuff happening that is not covid related – I’ll let you know some of the things that are happening with Manna. As you know, we’re not meeting on Saturday – in response to our government’s leading and health directives. We have been invited by Major Norm to set up at the soup kitchen – initially on Wednesday, and expanding into Friday as well. Major Norm’s goal was for us to host a gathering where people could explore issues of spirituality and connection with God, thus, on Wednesday, we had been seeking to lead conversations into areas that helped people recognize the ‘spiritual aspect’ of poverty. This was short-lived when the new regulations required fewer gatherings – so Wednesday became the day we focused on providing clothing – coats, sweaters, pants, toques, scarves, gloves – and in the midst of that, seek to chat with people. Friday, then, became the day when we provided groceries for the weekend. And we have been regularly seeing 50-60 people come through over the course of 2 hours and request groceries. We have also been going to Smithers RV park once a month and providing food and clothing options for 12-20 people. ‘who is we’ – that would be Pinky and me, and we’re loving it. On the ‘chaplain side’, I conducted a wedding today for Rod and Karianna, down at the beach – it became rather wet – but the 10 people scattered around enjoyed themselves and celebrated. Even Joe [Rod’s dog] got a hair cut, flowers, and a new collar for the big day. Next week, I’ll be conducting a memorial service at Orca for a resident who ODed this past week – this will be my first time back since the gov restricted church gatherings – and it will be an outdoor coffee with a blessing. I hope to resume Orca visits after mid Jan when the restrictions [I hope] are lifted. I stopped off at Springwood school today, as it was their last day prior to Christmas, and enquired about their breakfast program. They mentioned that it had been stopped because of covid [bagels, muffins, toast], but that there were still kids in need. I mentioned that we could potentially provide lunch/snack supplies – fruit leather, fruit cups, granola bars, juice boxes and lunch bags [all self contained and individually packaged] if they would like – so they will talk about it and get back to us in the new year. I also asked about needy families, and left them some Thrifty coupons. They mentioned that the ‘kid’s winter coat project’ wasn’t happening this year – and that some kids need jackets [this may be something we could advertise]. We’re also helping with the breakfast program run by Oceanside Church for Errington School – this has been warmly received and appreciated. For the month of Dec. we’ve purchased almost $8,000 of groceries and $2,000 of coupons – it is also a ‘long month’ for welfare cheques [they come out this week and not again until the end of Jan – almost 7 weeks], so we’re anticipating a huge need for help early Jan. Christmas is on a Friday – and the soup kitchen will be closed [and so will our grocery distribution], so we’re hoping to get enough out on Wednesday this coming week. I’ve been in touch with Kelly, and she is inviting Manna to participate with the ’16 bush camps’ that she is familiar with in our area. Tomorrow, I’m hoping to gather a bag of socks and toques and give them to her so that she can ask the ‘campers’ if Manna can come out regularly with food and clothing items. This will start up after Christmas, I’m hoping, and will offer us greater contact with people forced out of town and finding shelter in vulnerable situations. Robin was able to help Al and Amy move their trailer and get to a place with regular water and power hook-up, this has been a huge benefit for them. Robin continues to go out regularly to deliver food; Pinky and I are also busy making pick-up runs or deliveries; and we’ve been blessed with favourable monetary donations. [just a side note – QF has been very generous to us; allowing us to order food wholesale and than further reducing the amount we pay – this means, it is better for us to purchase food [we get more for our buck]. All to say, things are going well – we have a good working relationship with the Soup Kitchen. We miss the community building aspect of Saturday [as do many we see at the Soup Kitchen], and we hope that we can get back to some form of community building in the coming year. trust all is well, Jerrold

Over the course of the past four weeks, we’ve been able to expand our supports, and respond to an invitation from the Smithers RV ownership to attend there weekly. We’re now going to Smithers at 10:30 on Wednesday morning before continuing on to the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen at 12:00. Wednesday has proven to be a valuable time to offer assistance – often community support people are at the Soup Kitchen, and we can introduce them to our friends and follow up with their treatment plans. Wednesdays have become our new distribution time-slot. I’ve witnessed, and been told, that city bylaw officers discourage the weekend appearance of people who ‘may be homeless’. Even through the week, bylaw vehicles regularly patrol the Soup Kitchen to insure ‘disbursement’ by 1:00. With our open door invitation to Smithers, we have the opportunity to explore ways to support over 60 living units. Many are living there because of a limited retirement income, some have disability from work related injuries, some are on welfare with mental health challenges that prevent regular and steady employment. Yes, there are those who ‘do drugs’ – but these friends are often trying to mask their physical or emotional pain. I think we can begin to welcome more volunteers on Wednesday to help with the distribution of resources, creating friendships, and providing hope.

This past month, Manna was able to provide a bike to a woman needing transportation for work. We’ve been able to distribute eight bikes this past summer – two helped men, referred to us from SOS, establish a way to regularly get to appointments, the Food Bank and Soup Kitchen; three went to residents of Orca Place, helping them exercise and get to appointments; I passed on a bike, as mentioned, to a woman working at a local restaurant and another for her teenaged son visiting for the summer and seeking a summer job; and I passed on a bike to a friend at the Soup Kitchen. But I’ve run out of bikes. As the Fall closes in, I am anticipating renewed requests for bikes [with fenders] so people no longer need to walk to the Soup Kitchen or to work. We have friends at Smithers Road RV Park who walk to part-time employment and a bike would enhance their opportunities. If you are aware of anyone wanting to donate a bike to Manna, please have them call or email for a pick-up time. [contact information is at the bottom of the page]