The City of Moncton will be collecting data on 68 individuals who are living rough.
Superintendent Tom Critchlow with the Codiac RCMP says number of them have set up camp in various locations within the municipality, notably along Main street.
“And of course the downtown isn’t as busy as it has been in the past because of the situation, but we have noticed a number of people that have been set up in various store fronts, which is a concern,” he says,
He says there haven’t been any complains from the businesses but that it may be because they aren’t even aware.
Critchlow says people are still refusing shelter, despite there still being some room at the House of Nazareth.
The city plans on collecting data on why they are refusing to go to a shelter, in a push for support at the provincial level.
However, Councillor Charles Leger doesn’t understand why more data is needed.
“Its very clear that people don’t want to be in a shelter on a daily basis, they want to have their own place. We don’t need more data, what we need is to be more proactive in what we do, what I thought and what I hope will be is sustainable housing plans,” says Leger.
Councilor Paulette Theriault suggested a focus on prevention, especially for at risk youth.
She says this is especially important now, as many no longer have school as an outlet.
Both Theriault and Councillor Pierre Boudreau say kids with unstable home lives are at risk of becoming homeless.
Manager of recreation, culture and events Catherine Dallaire says educators share the same concern.
“We’ve met regularly with both of school districts in Moncton and these are issues they are struggling with, too and are trying to find solutions. I think that they do want to be part of the going forward in respect to trying to prevent young people becoming homeless,” she says.
Dallaire says many saw school as an outlet and are now confined to their homes.
She says these times are especially tough on those are struggling and vulnerable.
