I am writing in reference to your article dated Oct. 1, “Gladstone properties to house the homeless.”
It disturbs me as to why Gord Hunter thinks “the idea is looney.”
So what if the properties are not sold at market value? I guess he thinks the families who will move into these shelters will be paying nothing to house them. Think again.
The people who moved into these new shelters do pay a significant amount for shelter, food and anything else that is provided to them. Opening new shelters means less families and singles will be on the street this winter. Does Mr. Hunter know what life is like living on the streets — cold, hungry, ill? Taxpayers will not be picking up the full tab at all, many other sources will pull together to house families and singles. I would gladly help, to see a child sleep in a warm bed, instead of a cold sleeping bag all winter.
I can just bet that Mr. Hunter was one of those people who said, “Why can’t the government take these people and panhandlers off the street?”
Well, Mr. Hunter, something is being done to help, and you’re still not happy. Perhaps you have a better idea?
What began as a pilot project years ago has turned out to be a significant part of this community.
Wendy O’Callaghan
Wellington Street