Local groups are helping residents of tent communities settle into shelters, after eviction notices were issued.
Harvest House Atlantic is one of two shelters opening its doors.
But Executive Director Cal Maskery says some choose to be homeless and won’t want to leave the streets.
“Some people just don’t want to go to a shelter and that’s understandable. Sometimes they can stay out on their own in a tent, because they think they have a little more choice and safety, “Maskery says.
He says some are dealing with addiction or mental health issues, and they prefer to be on their own.
“Some people would just prefer to be in their own tent where they can control who comes in or out, but it does get hard December, January and February are very cold months. At that point, some will choose to come in, whereas others will refuse,” Maskery says.
The City of Moncton says there are currently around 125 people sleeping rough in various locations throughout the city.
“At a shelter, if you have a conflict with anyone, and you are in a dorm setting it is really hard to sleep. If you owe anyone a drug debt or if you’ve had a conflict the day before. There can be a lot of clashing at times,” Maskery says.
The City of Moncton issued eviction notices to those who are living in a tent city on Albert Street. They must be out by Wednesday, September 25th. Organizations including YMCA Reconnect, Salvus Clinic and House of Nazareth are helping to direct them to the services they need.
The City adds to support the transition, mental health and addiction services are essential. It is expected representatives from the Department of Public Health will also be part of the process.
The city adds the safety and security of those vulnerable individuals is at the forefront and they will be working on finding affordable housing options for as many of them as possible.
