Nova Scotia Town Opposes Homeless Shelter Amid Solitary Crisis

New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, is grappling with a significant crisis related to homelessness and its impacts on the community. The management at Viola’s Place, a local homeless shelter, claims it’s the only organization actively seeking to address this escalating issue. Since its establishment in 2018, the shelter has expanded its capacity and introduced various support programs to accommodate the growing number of homeless individuals.

Community Concerns Amid Growing Homeless Crisis

The rise in homelessness has paralleled increased disturbances in surrounding neighborhoods. Local resident Raymond Wiseman describes his once quiet neighborhood as filled with challenges. He noted rising incidents of drug use, theft, and public disturbances near the shelter, causing him to contemplate selling his home due to safety concerns.

Business owners in the area are also feeling the effects, citing a drop in customer foot traffic. Janice Arnold, manager of Soley Shoes, expressed that merchants are reconsidering their businesses in downtown New Glasgow due to safety fears and visible signs of distress in the area, such as discarded needles.

Response from Shelter Management

Lisa Deyoung, executive director of Viola’s Place, has indicated that the local government has overlooked the need for additional support to mitigate the growing crisis. She emphasized that as long as the shelter is blamed for broader societal issues, responsibility will not shift to the appropriate governing bodies. Deyoung called for a collaborative approach involving multiple agencies to effectively tackle these challenges.

Financial Strain on Emergency Services

The burden on emergency services has increased significantly, with municipal officials reporting an additional $1 million in costs related to responding to incidents involving homelessness and related issues. New Glasgow Regional Police Chief Ryan Leil highlighted a concerning 15 percent monthly increase in calls related to these matters.

• Over $500,000 spent responding to homelessness-related calls between January and September.
• Emerging need for a balanced approach involving compassion and accountability.

Need for Supportive Housing

Both shelter staff and municipal leaders agree on the urgent need for supportive housing in New Glasgow, similar to models seen in larger urban centers like Halifax. Deyoung attributes the increase in homelessness to rising rent costs, mass evictions, and a lack of supportive housing options.

Future Outlook

The situation remains precarious, with no immediate relief in sight as government officials have not provided a timeline for support housing initiatives in rural areas. Deyoung expressed concern that conditions will only worsen without necessary interventions.

Despite facing public harassment and pressure to reduce operational hours, the staff at Viola’s Place remain committed to supporting the local community. Deyoung noted incidents of hostility, including staff and clients facing derogatory remarks and aggression from some community members.

As New Glasgow continues to navigate this homelessness crisis, collaboration among various sectors will be essential to develop effective solutions and restore safety and stability to the community.