Ahead of another rainstorm, how N.S. emergency shelters are trying to keep unhoused people safe – Halifax | 24CA News
Another rainstorm is ready to hit Nova Scotia, and preparations are underway in Halifax to make sure these sleeping tough within the municipality have a secure place to remain.
Environment Canada issued a rainfall warning Tuesday, warning of great rainfall in a single day that might set off flash flooding or localized flooding.
It’s left many bracing for the storm.
Beacon House in Lower Sackville is including to its typical 20-bed capability and has a generator able to preserve the lights on and meals sizzling.
“On a stormy night we don’t worry about the number, we take those who come to the door. We have air mattresses. We can get more people in during an emergency and take care of them,” mentioned Jim Gunn, management group chair.
Meanwhile, 902 Man Up is opening one other shelter at St. Matthew’s Church in downtown Halifax.
“Hopefully, we can offer some temporary respite for people out of the nasty weather,” mentioned Wayne Lynch, the church’s property supervisor.
Those who’ve frolicked and lived within the tents at Victoria Park on Spring Garden Road know all too effectively how troublesome it’s to sleep tough within the parts.
Sharon, who declined to provide her final title for privateness causes, used to remain on the park however gave her tent to a buddy when she obtained shelter.
“Homeless people are having a real hard time trying to survive all the weather,” she mentioned.
Now, she’s apprehensive in regards to the impending storm and for the individuals who nonetheless dwell there.
“It actually caves in your tent, especially if the winds are too hard because the ground is getting saturated with rain and the little pegs that are in the tent … are not capable of holding down,” she mentioned.
Another former resident, Michel Babineau, now lives in a motel and says it’s not straightforward making ready for tough climate.
“A tarp over your tent probably would be good,” he mentioned. “Stay inside and pray — ask God to help you.”
Meanwhile, the province is providing help for individuals who lose belongings or objects as a result of climate.
Meredith Cowan, the homelessness government lead for the Department of Community Services, says funding is offered.
“(It’s) to help folks replace anything that needs to be replaced and often some gift cards to ensure they can replace any food that was spoiled,” Cowan mentioned.
But those that have known as Victoria Park house say extra assist is required.
“Sometimes it’s not enough. There’s got to be more people out there to help homeless people,” Sharon mentioned.
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