The city is stepping in to help several people living in a small Halifax park where temporary homeless shelters and tents have been set up.
A statement released by the municipality on Monday says seven people from the homeless encampment in Meagher Park have now been provided with temporary housing.
The small park situated at the corner of Chebucto Road and Dublin Street has been crammed with tents since a mass eviction was carried out against residents who were sleeping in public parks a month ago. It has been dubbed “Peoples Park” after becoming home to many unhoused people who have no where else to go.
The municipality was asked for help on Saturday by volunteers due to concerns over an increased risk to the health and safety of people living there and the public.
Signal boost for @PADScommunity
[image description: Instagram screenshot from peoplesparkhfx. people’s park in background, text on screen: “URGENT REQUEST: WE NEED SMALL TENTS!”] pic.twitter.com/ZoqjjgiWvo
— Laura Krabappel (@laurakrabappel) September 15, 2021
HRM says the accommodations are temporary, but they’re looking at other options.
“Given the short lead time and challenges with availability, the duration of these stays at the secured accommodations is limited; however, steps continue to be taken in collaboration with the Province of Nova Scotia and community based partners, to identify and offer other temporary accommodations and/ or housing options.”
The details on where residents are staying is not being released in order to protect their privacy.
Last month, Regional Council approved a motion to invest $500,000 to create emergency housing.
The municipality will also ensure federal rapid housing initiative funds are used to create 85 new affordable units.
They’ll be built by the Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia, Akoma Family Centre, and Soul’s Harbour Rescue Mission.
