Peterborough, ON: As of March 31, 2022, One City Peterborough's funding for our winter Outreach program has come to an end. We are grateful to have been able to run this program and support our neighbours sleeping outside this winter - helping folks stay alive. Our team of outreach workers were distributing survival gear, clothing, and basic food out of our office, out on the streets, and at our overnight drop-in centre while all the time helping to problem solve for individual needs. We are working on coordinating a way to continue distributing goods out of our office at 541 Water St.
This program was run through funding by United Way of Peterborough & District. We are grateful for their Winter Response to Homelessness initiative which provided the opportunity for many great Peterborough non-profits to support our neighbours outside.
While winter is coming to an end, the crisis is only getting worse. The Parks and Facilities Bylaw continues to make it illegal for individuals to provide themselves any shelter to sleep outside on city property “Many of our neighbours have nowhere they can legally exist.” says Christian Harvey, Executive Director of One City Peterborough. “Not only do they have to live outdoors, but they have to hide, constantly move and avoid authorities. We are giving a clear message that they are not wanted, they are not of value.” We remain resolute in continuing to advocate for the needs of our community of folks experiencing homelessness.