Many In Need Of Shelter As Winter Approaches

Oct 29, 2018 | 4:15 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – As the colder weather rolls in and the streets get busier, those who are living outdoors are trying to find places new to sleep. 

Different businesses have been putting up fences and playing loud music to keep those who sleep on the streets away, forcing them to find new shelter for the winter. 

“For the general public who don’t work with the homeless, to them they would see an influx of people on the streets. In reality, these individuals were staying behind buildings and businesses that have now taken security measures,” says Connie Abe, Executive Director of AWAC. “So those individuals now that were staying behind buildings and out of the general public eye, they are now on the streets.” 

Bernie Goold, the Chair of St Vincent De Paul says she is concerned for the people that don’t have a secure form of shelter. 

“We have been blessed with good weather. Once our temperatures go down I don’t know what is going to happen. I mean when the ground freezes there is no way it will warm up for them to sleep on it. It’s a very complex issue.” 

AWAC will start the Extreme Weather Response Program November 1st which provides shelters with additional funding for extra beds. And St Vincent De Paul wants to remind the public that their doors are open 365 days a year. 

 

Click here to report an error or typo in this article