Dear Editor:
Re: City councillors say they want homeless encampment out of Rainbow Park
This homeless problem has become the #1 issue that keeps rearing its ugly head at almost every council meeting.
I pass Rainbow Park regularly and I must admit it's become a blight on the south end of this city. There's a limit to what people must endure to live safely and peacefully but also co-exist with people experiencing homelessness.
One thing is clear: the homeless live the way they do in part because of addiction and untreated mental illness, and as Councillor Dennis expressed, partly by choice.
Many know exactly what they're doing and choose to do it anyway. There will never be enough financial support from social services, or perhaps the will, to meet the needs of the homeless population.
There is vacant land, privately owned but unused or underdeveloped, that may fill a need for temporary suitable, clean, living accommodations.
Both County and City management could find funds for portable units with generators and portable washrooms, along with bedding that would house many people who currently do not fit in.
This situation cannot be permitted to go on much longer.
Rosemary French
Sarnia