They were there to discuss ways to replace the LifeShelter, which closed last fall.
They were there to discuss ways to replace the LifeShelter, which closed last fall.
“You obviously all have a heart,” said the RCMP constable, who is part of a committee that for months have been exploring ways to provide a shelter.
“Taking the time to come out here on a Friday night shows you have a concern for your community.”
It’s a small step, but those looking to bring a shelter back to Pictou County are a bit closer to their goal.
The homeless in Pictou County, said committee member Karen MacPhee, are out there.
“But they’re not wanting us to know they’re there, because they are (finding shelter) in places they are not supposed to be.”
Three area residents – Mark Firth, Brian Bowden and Nancy MacCulloch, had their names drawn from a hat to bring the number of committee members up to seven.
Those in attendance learned that at November meeting with the New Brunswick-based Harvest House, which offers multiple services to the downtrodden, members of the committee were told that no human resources or administrative services would be offered to assist any effort to help a Pictou County shelter once its up and running, although Harvest House officials suggested that a five per cent fee – if not more – merely for using their name could be charged.
A number of issues were discussed, including whether so-called religious services would be offered, and whether they should be Christian-themed only.
Some in the gathering questioned the need to bring religion into the equation, although those on the ad-hoc committee stressed that religious aspects would not be at the forefront, that “no one would be turned away” and it would only be offered as an opportunity for those seeking faith-based guidance.
“The main purpose of a shelter is to provide a safe place for people in need,” said Stellarton resident Bridget Stewart.
Jessica Smith, who as executive director of The United Way of Pictou County was associated with the operation of the LifeShelter, stressed the need for patience and careful planning to ensure long-term sustainability for the proposed shelter.
Others were hoping for more immediate action.
“Winter is passing, and there are people cold,” said Brae Stewart.
“Is that what we want to see in the paper, that somebody froze because there was no place to go?”
Long-time county councilor Robert Parker agreed.
“I can’t believe that in Pictou County, we can’t do this,” he said. “There are people out on our streets.”
