A central Alberta metropolis has taken one other step to safe warming shelters for weak people residing in tents in an open subject, however its mayor says they want some assist.
As much as 60 folks have been sleeping in a homeless camp in Wetaskiwin, southeast of Edmonton, since August after the town closed its solely in a single day shelter.
The location has been described as “worse than a refugee camp.” Well being-service suppliers have recognized quite a few dangers, together with insufficient sources of heat, shelter, meals and security.
At a particular metropolis council assembly Friday, a further $35,000 was authorized on high of $150,000 in federal grants to pay for emergency warming trailers till the top of March 2022.
Paul Edginton, common supervisor of group and protecting providers, stated the town can be working with a proposed shelter operator, which is in talks with the federal government of Alberta.
“At this time limit, they’re ready to come back to city,” he stated. “They’re ramping up. They’re doing every thing on their finish to be prepared to come back on Nov. 29, first week of December.
“Operational funding wants to come back by means of earlier than we may open the trailers.”
Wetaskiwin Mayor Tyler Gandam stated he’ll attempt to discover funding, however added that the province must step up.
“I don’t suppose that the weak inhabitants can wait. You hear crickets when it comes time to truly put pen to paper and safe funding. So step up or shut up. I’m performed,” he stated Friday.
“I’m extraordinarily, extraordinarily pissed off and disenchanted within the lack of assist from different businesses.”
Edginton stated the probabilities of the proposed shelter operator not coming to Wetaskiwin are low, however he famous there may very well be different metropolis prices — together with fencing, elevated safety and insurance coverage for the trailers.
Alberta Well being Companies has a short lived contract with an area non-profit to make sure there’s entry to consuming water, meals and firewood for the homeless on the camp till a shelter house is secured.
The partnership may also assist transportation to medical appointments.
© 2021 The Canadian Press
