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North Point Douglas residents voice concern over growing encampments

Click to play video: 'Residents Concerned Over Growing Homeless Encampment In Point Douglas Greenspace'
Residents Concerned Over Growing Homeless Encampment In Point Douglas Greenspace
A North Point Douglas Greenspace was recently home to those experiencing homelessness. Community representatives say the debris that remains poses a health risk. – May 27, 2022

North Point Douglas residents are looking to resolve concerns over growing encampments.

Encampments have been popping up in parks, along the river banks, as well as behind the sign that welcomes people to the neighbourhood.

Residents say they are concerned about what these encampments are leaving behind, such as needles.

“The encampments that we’re seeing just create a prolific amount of garbage,” said Howard Warren, spokesperson for the Residents Association.

“Now all these naturalized bushes are trampled.”

Click to play video: 'Abandoned Point Douglas Encampment Poses Safety Risk'
Abandoned Point Douglas Encampment Poses Safety Risk
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The Residents Association held a meeting Thursday night to discuss the issue and it is looking toward partnering with a community organization called St. Boniface Streetlinks.

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The organization offers a hands-on approach to homelessness through social assistance, help with addiction, help with mental health, and assistance in getting a roof over their heads, Warren said.

North Point Douglas Coun. Ross Eadie said the city’s current approach could be much better.

“There are some spaces along the river in North Point Douglas that people don’t use as park space and stuff. I would prefer that we direct them there — keep them out of our parks because families are afraid,” he said.

The encampments have grown significantly since the pandemic, Warren and Eadie noted.

Click to play video: 'North Point Douglas residents voice concern over growing encampments'
North Point Douglas residents voice concern over growing encampments

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