Regarding the “unsightliness” of the homeless downtown
The following is a response to a resident concerned about the “unsightliness” of the homeless downtown.
Dear Resident, thanks for the question this is a very complicated issue.
I will address these issues as a member of the City Council, but not as a member of the police board. Police matters must be handled by our Chief – I recognize you are not likely talking about policing, but that is important as I have had many people believing we can arrest our way out of this problem. That will not occur.
The issues that need to be addressed relate to the following: the Charter of Rights and Freedoms; recent court decisions permitting encampments and the incapacity of municipalities to “police” our way out of mass homelessness and mental illness.
Across Canada, municipalities are confronted by the same concerns, view this article by CBC
Until the federal and provincial governments re-assume the responsibility for housing that was given up in the 1980s and 90s, we are between a rock and a hard place. This is compounded by our nation’s failure to address mental illness and substance abuse effectively. As Chief Gordon Cobey has stated to me, “We cannot arrest the homeless nor move them to other neighbourhoods”. That is a position that I concur with and which police chiefs across Canada would equally see as being an honest assessment.
What I have done to assist those who are homeless and suffering the ravages of mental illness is the following: donate financially on an ongoing basis to various groups and work with them offering food, shelter, and other forms of support. I have also connected with our mental health workers to find accommodations (usually in motels) for people in crisis. The number for the Canadian Mental Health Association is the following: 1 844 437 3247. There is also a new cross-Canada mental health emergency number: 988.
I know this is just patchwork, but I encourage everyone to consider that until our governments which have the financial capacity to do so, take charge, this might be our only response.
In the meantime, I might suggest that the community consider supporting the following Missions and organizations:
Royal City Mission
Chalmers Mission
North End Harvest Market
All Saints Lutheran Anglican Silvercreek Community Market
Furthermore, when somebody is known to be in crisis, please do not hesitate to call the police as they have access to temporary emergency shelter support. In the past, I have connected several people this way and will continue to do so. Of course, many other organizations can be supported. I am sure many in the community are doing what they see as appropriate.
I’m sorry for the long answer. I also know that this will not be entirely satisfying.
Please feel free to call me. I am very happy to discuss this, but, as I’m sure you are aware: talking frames the problem but doesn’t solve it.
In my prayers, I wish every food bank, every shelter, and every safe injection site were put out of business.
That will only occur when we have an economy that provides fair wages, has addressed the ravages of alienation and mental health concerns properly, and has housing for everyone.
Wishing you and everyone the best for the season.
I am particularly wishing those without a roof over their head nor the means to afford it, safety and security in these cold times.
Phil Allt
Councillor, Ward 3
City of Guelph
519 827-6579
