A Calgary family who have been living in their car for months are shedding a light on the experience of being unhoused.
The Dawes, a family of six, have been living in their vehicle for six months.
“That’s all we’ve got left, that’s our home, that’s what we call home right now,” said Krista Dawe, the mother of the family.
However, two nights ago, the battery died, leaving the family to sleep in the cold on a night when the temperature dipped to -21 C in Calgary.
Local advocates who have been helping provide the Dawe family with clothing and food say more resources are needed for unhoused families.
The family has tried to find room in a shelter but have been told that because their eldest child is 18 years old — technically an adult — the family would need to be split up.
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The Dawes say this isn’t something they are prepared to do and want to stay together as a family.
While Global News was speaking with the family, a local shelter called to offer help, but again they would have to split up.
“I’m frustrated. Just because a child turns 18, it doesn’t mean they’re no longer part of the family unit,” said Mona, who has been trying to help the family find shelter.
Thanks to some help from some Good Samaritans, the Dawes managed to get their car started again Tuesday afternoon.
Late Tuesday, the family was also offered shelter for the night with the possibility they may be allowed to stay even longer.
Does anyone have information about this couple so people can help?
You picked the wrong family to showcase. I noticed they used the mother’s last name not the father’s and children’s. I feel terrible for these kids. Thankfully one has already gotten out. The father’s drug use and violence and unwillingness to work is the reason they are where they are! He actually told a former neighbour he doesn’t believe in working.
Instead staying together , why don’t they try to work ???
Beggars cannot be choosers. The family is forever, but a child is not a child once they are 18, and need to recognize that they should be treated that way.
How come if they were sleeping in there I didn’t see one blanket or pillow in the picture? I’ve helped this family in the past. Not again.
Cheap motorhomes and trailers on Facebook and year round camping spots around Calgary. A solar panel on the car roof will help with that battery.
I would be willing to pay for a few nights in a motel. Why are families homeless in Canada… This is so heartbreaking. I just can’t imagine how the mom and dad feel when their kids have to live in a car. 6 people…what is wrong here!!
how can people help?
I would like to know how this family got in this situation , before offering a comment ?
We can’t do much but want to gift a hotel room for a night.
Can Global help facilitate that?
I am willing to pay for a new battery up to 250.00 for this family vechicle