Why Parksville Mayor and Council Should Provide a Safe, Designated Location for Manna Homeless Society
- 5d
- 3 min read
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:
Or cheques can be sent to:
Manna Homeless Society
PO Box 389
Errington BC VOR 1VO
