Greater Moncton is a rapidly growing metro area and along with that comes some rapidly growing problems including homelessness.
YMCA outreach programs director Lisa Ryan estimates at least 120 people are now sleeping outside in tents, in vehicles or out in the elements.
Ryan says that number is likely even higher and her organization has been busy over the last few months.
“So we’ve been trying to make sure we are monitoring tent sites… and checking in on individuals on a regular basis which has been quite… quite an ordeal,” she notes.
Ryan says homelessness numbers have jumped due to the large number of rooming houses being shut down or torn down recently and shelters have been operating at maximum capacity.
Some individuals have told her that they feel safer being out in the elements rather than staying at a shelter.
Ryan adds the lack of affordable housing is a huge issue in Metro Moncton right now which needs to be addressed.
