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To Our Generous Community Partners, Local Businesses, and Caring Residents of Oceanside, We at Manna Homeless Society are reaching out with an urgent request for donations of bottled water to distribute on the streets of Oceanside this summer. As temperatures climb during these hot summer months, our outreach teams are witnessing increasing numbers of seniors, vulnerable adults, and people at risk struggling with heat exposure while living on the streets or in precarious housing situations. We would be deeply grateful for any contributions of sealed cases of bottled water that we can safely hand out in the Oceanside neighbourhoods. Why This Matters for Health and Well-Being Access to clean, cool drinking water is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect people from serious heat-related illnesses. In extreme heat, the body loses fluids rapidly through sweat, which can quickly lead to dehydration. Even mild dehydration causes dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and muscle cramps—symptoms that often send seniors and at-risk individuals to walk-in clinics or hospital emergency departments. Left unaddressed, dehydration can progress to heat exhaustion or life-threatening heat stroke, placing enormous strain on our local healthcare system and causing unnecessary suffering. Seniors are especially vulnerable because their sense of thirst diminishes with age, and many have underlying conditions (such as heart disease, diabetes, or medications that increase dehydration risk) that make heat far more dangerous. By providing bottled water during our street outreach, we help people stay hydrated, maintain body temperature regulation, and avoid preventable medical emergencies. Your donation of water directly keeps people healthier, reduces hospital and clinic visits, and allows our limited resources to focus on other critical needs like meals, hygiene supplies, and housing support. How You Can Help • Drop off cases of bottled water at our Errington location 1240 Leffler road. • Contact us to arrange a pickup if you have a larger donation at Oceansidemanna@gmail.com • Share this request with your workplace, church, service club, or neighbours Every single bottle makes a difference. Even a small contribution helps us keep our neighbours safe and healthy through the summer heat. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your compassion and generosity. Together, we can ensure no one in Oceanside has to suffer from preventable heat-related illness this summer. With gratitude, Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Social Box 389 Errington BC VOR -1VO

Swollen Feet in Summer: Causes, Relief, and Prevention By Raquel, Foot Care Nurse, Manna Homeless Society As temperatures rise during the summer months, many people notice their legs and feet becoming puffy and uncomfortable. This common issue occurs because heat causes blood vessels to expand, allowing fluid to leak into surrounding tissues. Gravity then pulls this excess fluid downward, leading to swelling in the feet and ankles. While this swelling is usually temporary, it can cause significant discomfort. Feet may feel heavy, tight, or achy. The skin can appear shiny from increased pressure, and shoes often feel tighter than usual. This added friction can result in blisters, chafing, and skin irritation. When combined with sweating, the trapped moisture inside shoes creates an ideal environment for fungal and bacterial infections. Simple Ways to Reduce Swelling and Discomfort at Home Fortunately, several practical steps can help alleviate these symptoms: • Elevate your feet: Lie down with your feet positioned above your heart for 20 minutes, three times a day. This helps fluid drain back toward the body. • Cool water soaks: Soaking your feet in cool water constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling. • Stay active: Avoid standing for long periods. Walking encourages the calf muscles to act as a natural pump, improving circulation and dispersing fluid. • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can actually trigger the body to retain more fluid. • Foot care basics: Change socks at least once a day (more often if you sweat heavily). Wear properly fitting shoes to minimize pressure and friction. Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent infections. These simple measures can make a big difference in comfort and help prevent minor issues from becoming more serious. At Manna Homeless Society, our Mobile Care unit is a welcoming and accessible place to receive professional foot care support. Whether you need relief from swelling, treatment for irritation or infection, or advice on preventing complications, our team is here to help — no appointment necessary. Important Note: If swelling occurs in only one leg, is painful, or does not improve with rest and elevation, seek medical attention promptly. A burning sensation or other unusual symptoms may indicate an underlying health condition that needs professional evaluation

After years of persistent advocacy, the Manna Homeless Society is thrilled to see Parksville’s Mayor and Council finally approve in letter form support for an extreme weather shelter in our community. For too long, articles in this paper highlighted how City Hall’s refusal to support even basic emergency shelter had left vulnerable residents of the Oceanside area exposed to life-threatening conditions. The lack of care contributed directly to preventable suffering and loss of life during harsh weather. Today, that long-standing barrier has lifted. What once felt impossible now stands as a genuine miracle and a profound blessing for everyone who calls this region home. The new shelter offers just 10 beds — a modest beginning, yet an enormously important one. It signals a shift toward the kind of compassionate leadership our community has needed. A healthy community is only as strong as its willingness to care for every citizen, including those experiencing homelessness. By providing safe refuge when temperatures plunge or storms hit, Parksville is finally acknowledging that no one should have to face the elements without protection. With the extreme weather shelter now supported by council, the Manna Homeless Society can redirect vital energy and resources toward the broader healthcare needs of the homeless and those at risk. We will now focus on strengthening our heath and foot care program, clothing program, feeding of the homeless, and our bicycle program — all areas that require important adjustments and expansion to better serve our community. These initiatives provide essential daily support, dignity, and practical help that complement the new shelter and address the full spectrum of challenges faced by our most vulnerable neighbours. We can already see the positive effects unfolding. Lives will be saved. Emergency services will face less pressure. Families and businesses in the Oceanside area will experience greater safety and stability. Most importantly, people who have felt forgotten will know they matter. Dignity is being restored, one bed and one act of care at a time. This decision gives us real hope. We look forward to strong, continued leadership from Council in the years ahead — leadership that builds on this foundation and ensures no one in our community is left behind. The Manna Homeless Society thanks Mayor and Council for choosing care over indifference. This is the start of something better for all of us. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Serving the Oceanside area Monetary donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society PO Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

Programs Manna Homeless Society’s 20-year proven history in the Parksville area, Robin Campbell’s leadership, the Diamond Jubilee Award from the Queen of England for dedicated work caring for people at risk, Parksville’s Citizen of the Year recognition for working with the less fortunate and people on the street …. And bringing it to the attention of the community, and strong partnerships with Rotary and other service groups all strengthen the credibility and legacy of the organization. 1. Enhances Public Safety and Reduces Crime Manna Homeless Society’s programs, under Robin Campbell’s leadership, have operated successfully for 20 years in the Parksville area and contributed to a measurable decrease in the local crime rate over the last five years. By providing medical care, food, clothing, and support that address root causes of desperation, these initiatives prevent petty crime and build community stability. A safe, designated central location would eliminate current “hit and miss” operations on the outskirts and in unsafe spots throughout Parksville. This partnership would deliver proven results with zero added burden to the City. 2. Delivers Critical Healthcare and Saves Lives The large ambulance, turned into a care mobile staffed with a nurse, pharmacist, and nurse practitioner, provides essential foot care and general health services twice weekly (Saturdays and Wednesdays) to vulnerable individuals. Over five years this has prevented emergencies, brought people back from crisis, and connected them to ongoing care. With Robin Campbell’s 20 years of dedicated service—recognized by the Queen of England with the Diamond Jubilee Award for work with the homeless—Manna has a strong track record of saving lives and reducing pressure on emergency services. A stable location would enable more consistent, dignified care without the current safety and access challenges. 3. Provides Essential Food Security and Basic Needs Support In longstanding partnership with Rotary Club, local churches, and other service groups, Manna distributes sandwiches, porridge, hotdogs, canned foods, and clothing. These programs have thrived for 20 years, directly supporting hundreds in the Parksville area. Robin Campbell’s recognition as Citizen of the Year for service to the poor underscores the community trust and impact. A dedicated safe space would streamline distribution, reduce waste from mobile disruptions, and ensure reliable access—strengthening food security and demonstrating Parksville’s compassion. 4. Demonstrates Exceptional Fiscal and Operational Responsibility Manna Homeless Society is fully insured, willing to post a bond, and committed to leaving any site cleaner than found. With Robin Campbell’s leadership, the organization has earned the Diamond Jubilee Award from the Queen of England, Citizen of the Year in Parksville, and strong support from Rotary and multiple service groups. The 20-year success in Parksville proves reliability and effectiveness. Providing a safe location is a low-risk, high-return investment that leverages this honoured track record rather than forcing inefficient operations. 5. Builds Stronger Community and Long-Term Resilience Beyond immediate aid, Manna’s bike service helps people reach jobs and medical appointments, supporting pathways out of homelessness. Under Robin Campbell’s award-winning leadership, these efforts have restored hope, built social connections, and created a more inclusive community over two decades. By granting a safe central area, Council would enable expansion of these transformative services, reduce long-term social costs, and honour the legacy that has already earned Queen’s recognition and local acclaim—positioning Parksville as a leader in humane, effective solutions to homelessness. Recommended Next Step Manna Homeless Society, led by Robin Campbell, respectfully requests a designated safe location (e.g., a parking area, underutilized public space, or partnership site) to continue and expand these vital services responsibly. We are ready to provide full documentation of insurance, bonding, awards, and outcome data, and to collaborate closely with the City. These points highlight both the tangible benefits and the trusted, award-winning leadership behind Manna’s work, making a compelling case for support. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Monetary donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society PO Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

What an incredible gift from our community's young people!!! "100 Kids for Change is an organization for youth ages 18 and under in the Oceanside area, with the purpose of spreading positive change in the community through youth philanthropy." https://www.parksvillequalicumfoundation.com/100-kids-for-change/?shem=rimspwouoe, Janel and Troy van Dongen of 100 Kids for Change in Oceanside present Manna Homeless Society with a cheque. This is a testament to the compassion, commitment and open-heartedness of the young people of Oceanside.

As part of M&N's generous gift to the community, 60 mattresses will be given away to the less fortunate of Oceanside and surrounding area who are badly in need of a bed. If you qualify to apply, contact 250-248-8793. [ Poster content in text form below ] 🎉 Celebrating a Milestone – Giving Back to Our Community! 🎉 In honor of a very special 60th birthday, we’re proud to celebrate by giving back to the incredible community that has supported us over the years. 💙 $60,000 Giveaway 💙 We are donating 60 BC-made Queen Eurotop mattresses (valued at $1,000 each) to local residents in need across Parksville, Nanoose, Qualicum, and surrounding areas. Proof of residency may be required.  This is our way of saying thank you and helping those who need a little extra support. ✨ How to Be Considered / Get Involved: 1. Contact SOS: 250-248-2093 2. Follow: Give Ask Gratitude Oceanside (Facebook page) 3. Manna Homeless Society: 250-248-8793 4. Mount Aerosmith Salvation Army: 250-248-8793 5. Mattresses are also available for local fundraisers – see in-store for details Together, we can make a real difference. 💫 Thank you for being part of our journey! 📍Visit us today M&N Mattress & Sofa Gallery 291 Island Hwy E, Parksville (Pharmasave Plaza) Visit us today!

The MANNA Homeless Society stands as a vital beacon of compassion and practical support in the Oceanside region of Vancouver Island, including Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Errington, and surrounding communities. For over two decades, under dedicated leadership and volunteers, MANNA has tirelessly served individuals and families facing homelessness, poverty, and marginalization—offering emergency food, clothing, hygiene supplies, temporary shelter provisions, bikes for transportation, and even mobile health and foot care through their Community Care Mobile. Their work fills critical gaps where systemic services often fall short, providing not just survival essentials but also preserving human dignity in tough times. One of the most heartfelt and impactful elements of MANNA’s outreach is their Saturday morning program. In an area where many support services pause on weekends, this gathering becomes a lifeline. Volunteers like Ronalda Welsh and Rod Morrison generously donate their time to serve up Rod’s hot dogs—a simple, warm, and incredibly well-received meal that brings smiles and immediate comfort to those who arrive hungry. These hot dogs are more than food; they’re a welcoming gesture that says, “You matter, and you’re not forgotten today.” Complementing this are the incredible bagged lunches prepared with care by local churches and volunteers. Each bag is thoughtfully packed to sustain people through the day and beyond: beautiful sandwiches made with love, fresh fruit, fruit juices, energy bars, and a wonderful variety of nourishing items. These aren’t rushed handouts—they’re crafted with intention, ensuring recipients have something substantial when other doors are closed. As people receive these provisions, they’re also invited to enjoy fresh fruit, hot coffee, and additional food items while sitting together on chairs, fostering a rare space for community and connection. This Saturday experience does far more than address physical hunger—it nourishes the soul and plants seeds of real transformation. For many living on the streets or in precarious situations, days can blur into a never-ending experience of isolation, exhaustion, and despair. Coming to MANNA on a Saturday offers a powerful antidote: a place where individuals are seen, welcomed without judgment, and treated with genuine kindness. Sitting in community, sharing a hot meal and conversation, reminds people of their inherent value. It counters the dehumanizing effects of homelessness by affirming, “You belong here. You are worthy of care.” In this way, MANNA’s outreach plays a profound role in changing lives. A warm hot dog and a lovingly prepared bag lunch can ease immediate pressure, freeing up mental and emotional energy that might otherwise be consumed by survival stress. More importantly, the consistent showing up—week after week—builds trust and hope. People begin to feel valued and loved, often for the first time in a long while. That spark of dignity can ignite motivation: someone might take a small step toward health support through the mobile clinic, accept a bike to seek work or services, or simply find the strength to keep going another day. Over time, these moments of connection accumulate, helping to break cycles of isolation and despair while strengthening the broader community fabric. By demonstrating love in such tangible, respectful ways—through shared food, attentive listening, and practical help—MANNA models a powerful truth: compassion creates ripples. It reduces the strain on emergency services, encourages volunteerism and church involvement, and reminds everyone in Oceanside that we are all interconnected. When vulnerable neighbours are loved and supported, the whole community becomes healthier, safer, and more humane. If this important work resonates with you, please consider supporting the MANNA Homeless Society. Your contribution—whether financial, in-kind donations of food, clothing, or outdoor gear, or even your time—directly amplifies these life-affirming programs. To donate: •  E-transfer: Mannaparksville@gmail.com •  Cheque: Manna Homeless Society, Box 389, Errington BC, V0R 1V0 Every gift helps sustain Saturday mornings and the many other daily acts of kindness that bring hope to those who need it most. Thank you for standing with MANNA in showing that love expressed through action truly has the power to transform lives and communities.

Manna Homeless Society in the Parksville-Oceanside area of British Columbia. Jerrold Paetkau, the dedicated community chaplain and operations manager, plays a key role in supporting vulnerable people. These stories draw from the real impact of providing repaired bikes for transportation—helping with jobs, medical appointments, shopping, independence, and rebuilding confidence—while weaving in the broader compassionate work of Manna, including mobile foot care, food support, and spiritual encouragement, clothing, shelter, sleeping bags and tarps. 1. From Isolation to Employment: Mark’s Story Mark had been sleeping rough in the Oceanside area for months after losing his job and housing. Walking everywhere limited him to nearby spots, and missing medical appointments for his chronic condition left him feeling defeated. When Jerrold connected with him during a chaplaincy visit and learned of his situation, Manna provided a refurbished bike tailored to his needs. Within weeks, Mark started commuting to a part-time job at a local warehouse. The freedom to travel farther meant reliable attendance, and he could shop for groceries without relying on overburdened friends. “That bike gave me my legs back—and my dignity,” Mark shared. Over time, steady income helped him secure stable housing. The program didn’t just hand over wheels; it restored momentum to a life stalled by circumstance, enriching his confidence and opening doors in the Parksville community. 2. Reclaiming Health and Independence: Sarah’s Journey Sarah, a single mother at risk of homelessness, struggled with medical situations that required frequent trips to clinics in Qualicum Beach or Parksville. Relying on infrequent buses or long walks exhausted her, especially while managing her children’s needs and her own recovery. Through Manna’s consistent outreach, Jerrold helped facilitate a bike donation, which volunteers repaired and fitted with a basket for essentials. Suddenly, Sarah could attend appointments on her schedule, pick up prescriptions without stress, and even do weekly shopping independently. The physical activity improved her mental health, while the reliability reduced anxiety. “I feel like a person again, not just someone surviving,” she said. This small but powerful tool, combined with Manna’s mobile medical care and food packages, created a ripple effect—strengthening family stability and modelling resilience for her kids in the Oceanside area. 3. Building Confidence Through Mobility: David’s Turnaround David, who had faced years on the streets, described himself as “stuck in survival mode.” Without reliable transportation, job interviews, training programs, and even basic errands felt impossible. The overwhelming sense of limitation eroded his self-worth. Jerrold, known for his compassionate street-level ministry, listened to David’s story and arranged for a sturdy bike through Manna’s program. As David pedalled to his first work shift and later to training, something shifted. He began arriving on time, interacting with coworkers, and feeling capable. “The bike wasn’t just metal—it was proof I could move forward,” he reflected. Months later, David secured full-time work, and his life changed. David’s testimony reveals how countless lives can be quietly transformed by turning donated bikes into pathways of self-reliance and renewed purpose. 4. Everyday Freedom for Medical and Daily Needs: Lisa’s Experience Living with a medical condition that required regular check-ups and medication pickups, Lisa found the distances in the Oceanside area (from Errington to Parksville and beyond) overwhelming on foot. Public transit gaps and fatigue made consistency difficult, deepening her isolation. Manna stepped in after Jerrold’s team connected with her during mobile distribution. A donated bike, fixed up with lights and a secure lock, changed her routine. She could now reach healthcare appointments without missing them, shop for nutritious food to support her recovery, and even visit community resources. This independence reduced stress and improved her overall well-being. “It’s like someone handed me back control of my days,” Lisa noted. Integrated with Manna’s volunteer nurses and chaplaincy support, the bike became part of a holistic web of care that has enriched health outcomes and community connections for Lisa. 5. A Wave of Transformation: The Broader Impact in Oceanside Over the years, Manna’s bike program—fuelled by community donations and volunteer repairs—has created an overwhelming positive shift in the Parksville-Oceanside area. One recipient, a formerly at-risk individual named Alex, summed it up: “I went from feeling trapped to feeling like I belonged again.” Bikes have enabled people to pursue employment, attend medical situations reliably, handle shopping and errands, and simply experience the freedom of movement in a sprawling coastal region. Jerrold’s chaplaincy often pairs these practical gifts with encouragement and hope, and ensures the program runs consistently, 365 days a year, alongside food, clothing, and mobile healthcare delivery. What started as providing a simple mode of transportation has grown into nurturing confidence, fostering self-sufficiency, and strengthening a social connection for the new owners of these bikes. Countless stories echo the same theme: a bike isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a catalyst for reclaiming life, one pedal at a time. The program’s success has been profound, touching individuals and families while inspiring more donations and volunteer involvement in this tight-knit Vancouver Island community. These narratives highlight the real, tangible difference made by Manna Homeless Society’s efforts. If you would like to support the ongoing bike program , such as donating an adult bike or a youth bike , please let us know by calling 1-250-248-0845 or emailing Oceansmanna@gmail.com If you are interested in making a donation for the other work that Manna does, e-transfers can be made to: MannaParksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society PO Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

This winter, the Manna Homeless Society in Parksville has placed a number of men and women into donated trailers, offering them a safe, dry haven amid Vancouver Island’s relentless rains. For those who had endured weeks of being soaked and freezing while rough sleeping or living in tents, the simple gift of shelter has been life-changing. Many arrived wet, cold, and hopeless, their health declining from exposure. Now, with a warm, protected space, they sleep soundly, regain strength, and begin rebuilding. Lives once marked by daily survival struggles have transformed into stories of renewed dignity and possibility. Men and women speak of fresh hope, better health, and the inspiring knowledge that someone cares deeply. This practical act of love has proven profoundly successful, with participants reporting forever-changed outlooks and motivation to move forward. The impact ripples through the Parksville and Oceanside community. Fewer people suffer visibly on the streets, fostering greater compassion and reducing the strain on emergency services. Neighbors witness the power of grassroots kindness, inspiring more involvement and unity. Manna’s trailer initiative demonstrates that targeted, heartfelt support can dramatically enhance lives. This form of love is priceless—turning despair into dignity and isolation into belonging. In a region where winter rains test the vulnerable, Manna has shown what real change looks like. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Monetary donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society PO Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

Water Warnings Ignored While Housing Booms For over a decade, the Englishman River and our aquifers have shown clear signs of strain—declining groundwater, shrinking snowpack, and recurring droughts. Yet Parksville council continues approving new housing developments, adding hundreds of unaffordable units and drawing more residents to an area already at its limit. Every year, the same pattern unfolds. Spring begins with Level 1 watering restrictions, escalating through the dry summer to Level 3 or full Stage 4 bans on all outdoor water use. We’ve reached Stage 4 four times in the last five years. Residents conserve, businesses suffer, and visitors see brown lawns—yet city hall’s priority remains growth at all costs. Meanwhile, the aggressive push for new housing has driven rents and home prices sharply higher while wages stagnate. The result is visible on our streets: more families and seniors living in their cars. The latest point-in-time count recorded 94 people experiencing homelessness in the Parksville-Qualicum area, most of them unsheltered. Manna Homeless Society has noted a clear increase in vehicle-dwellers, bringing parking complaints, sanitation issues, and safety concerns that officials too often downplay. Recently, Manna was forced to stop providing weekly assistance from vehicles at the Salvation Army after just two hours because the gathering created problems, with no alternative solution offered by the city. This lack of support is shameful. Real leadership would protect every resident—families in homes, seniors on fixed incomes, and those living in vehicles. It would prioritize water storage, aquifer protection, and infrastructure upgrades before approving thousands more water users. It would focus on attainable housing rather than luxury units alone. Without reliable water, even beautiful Parksville becomes unattractive for both living and investment. Our leaders owe the community better. It’s time they chose sustainability over unchecked growth and compassion over denial. Our future depends on it. Lately, Manna Homeless Society has been driven to the outskirts of the city across the tracks past Buckerfields on Saturday mornings from 10am till Noon. Great numbers of people still come and gather even though it’s very difficult for them to get there. What a stain on the city of Parksville. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society Monetary donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society PO Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO

Five years ago, Manna Homeless Society could comfortably distribute essential survival items—food, clothing, warm blankets, foot care supplies, and temporary shelter support—on the grounds of the Salvation Army Mt. Arrowsmith Church in Parksville. Our weekly two-hour outreach served a manageable number of people in need, with minimal disruption to the surrounding community. Today, the situation is unrecognizable. Homelessness in the Oceanside region has surged, with the 2025 point-in-time count identifying 94 individuals experiencing homelessness in Parksville and Qualicum Beach alone—an alarming increase that reflects broader trends across Vancouver Island. More people are living in vehicles, tents, or on the streets, many hidden from view yet desperately struggling with poverty, mental health challenges, and addiction. This growth of people living in cars has overwhelmed our former location. Businesses lost parking spaces, foot traffic spilled onto roadways, and safety concerns mounted for everyone involved. We are deeply grateful to those neighbours and businesses who tolerated the disruption for as long as they did. Yet, shame on the City of Parksville for its heartbreaking inaction. Despite repeated pleas, the council has failed to provide even a small, safe parcel of land for our modest weekly outreach. Just days ago, on February 11, 2026, we were forced to vacate the Salvation Army property, leaving us to deliver vital services “on the road” without a stable base. There remains no permanent winter shelter in Oceanside, no designated space for basic aid, and no meaningful leadership to address this crisis. The consequences are already unfolding: rising deaths among the unhoused, strained emergency services, and a community divided by neglect. Turning their backs on the most vulnerable is beyond belief. Parksville deserves better—from its leaders and from all of us. Robin Campbell Manna Homeless Society

In the shadow of Parksville’s serene coastal beauty, a silent war rages—not against crime or chaos, but against compassion itself. For 20 years, the Manna Homeless Society has been a lifeline for the vulnerable, battling an epidemic of homelessness that has exploded in the last five. More women, seniors, and mothers with children now wander the streets, their lives shattered by economic despair. We’ve watched families fracture, elders endure the elements, and kids go hungry. Our response? Scaling up: distributing far more food than ever, providing remarkable foot care to heal blistered soles, and running a bicycle program that empowers mobility. We’ve handed out clothing, tents, trailers, sleeping bags—essentials for survival in a world that turns its back. But cruelty has a new face. Instead of wisdom from those in charge—offering a safe patch of land for just two hours, twice a week—authorities chose eviction. Kicking us off streets under the guise of easing traffic flow, they ignited chaos. Volunteers, including myself, felt deflated; I quit Manna for 24 hours, overwhelmed by disbelief. Board members teetered on resignation. Then came the police: three cars surrounding us on private property, ordering us to scatter like criminals. It was cold; people were finally getting supplies to survive—warm clothes, medical aid, food. Now, we sneak through the city, hoping the desperate can find us, doling out vital needs from vehicles while praying we won’t be run off again. The suffering is unimaginable, an attack on the poor that defies reason. Without our services, the unhoused steal to eat, skip medical checkups, sell their bodies for shelter, or simply give up. Just days ago, we found a man freezing in a ditch, saved only by a woman lying atop him to share her warmth—he’d have died otherwise. Over 90 souls walk the streets and who knows how many are living in cars. Y et Parksville’s leaders offer nothing: no land, no all-weather shelters, no warming stations. This isn’t oversight; it’s deliberate cruelty from those who know better. Fixing it? So easy—a moment’s decision could provide a safe space for us to help, keeping volunteers secure and the community safer. We’ve become the “bad guys” for caring, yet we won’t quit. We’ll drive the streets until our vehicles are seized or we’re jailed, fighting this dehumanizing game. But we need you: partners to purchase land where Manna can operate safely, serving Parksville and beyond. This could end the suffering, but leaders choose death and despair over mercy. Pray for them; pray for change. Monetary donations can be made by e-transfer to: MannaParksville@gmail.com Or cheques can be sent to: Manna Homeless Society PO Box 389 Errington BC VOR 1VO