Editor:
Several of my neighbours have told me they have it on good authority that the RainCity Housing development in Sechelt is a disaster and that the locals have to clean up used needles. My neighbours are scared and outraged that something that dangerous is being proposed near Gibsons Elementary. I found it hard to believe that a homeless person who has been abusing substances out in the community would be housed and then use needles outside their own building. So I called the manager of the Sechelt facility. As I expected, he strongly disputed what I’d been told. I have three things to say about this.
First, when we hear rumours, even from dear and trusted friends, it’s best to check. Here are some places I encourage my neighbours to check on this issue: RainCity, RCMP, School District No. 46, Gibsons Elementary PAC, neighbours of the RainCity-run shelter in Gibsons, and the Sechelt mayor or CAO.
Second, common sense and many studies (search “housing first” for references) would tell us that providing safe housing for people who are currently part of our community without safe housing would reduce the instances of used needles in public places, reduce the costs of hospitalization for those who live out in the elements (remember we have already had at least one such person die), and because of the use of showers, increase the likelihood of these people moving back into paid employment or education leading to such employment.
Finally, morally, I believe we have a duty to “the least of these” who need our help, our respect, and our compassion.
Audrey Owen, Gibsons
