Regina’s Chief of Police says he stands by his comments made last week about a homeless encampment set up in front of city hall.
Last week Evan Bray said he felt the encampment’s location was being used to exploit the issue of homelessness in the city.
Bray said at the time he felt that having people camping in front of city hall was more about exploiting people experiencing homelessness than it was trying to help them.
- Download the CTV News app to get Regina breaking news alerts sent to your device
“I will forever stand behind trying to help those that find themselves disadvantaged in the city especially those that are without a home,” Bray said during an interview with CTV Morning Live on Monday.
“The frustrating thing for me and what you heard me talk about last week is people that use this as an opportunity to plunk them down in front of city hall.”
The encampment has been receiving donations from residents and local businesses.
Bray said at the end of the day, there are many organizations that will accept donations of supplies like water and blankets to help those in need.
“But when you put them in front of city hall it’s really only for one purpose and that’s to try and make [the issue] political and those types of things. I said it last week and I’ll say it again, this is not an issue that city hall alone can fix,” Bray said.
He also acknowledged that the city has been working diligently to prioritize the issue.
“The good work continues and I appreciate the volunteers and everyone who comes out to help, I do get frustrated with what I call activists that are exploiting a situation.
Currently, an estimated 70 people are now living in tents outside Regina City Hall. Volunteers welcomed the support of Social Services.
“Making sure that they get the services they need or if they have any questions about how they are being provided or whom they need to talk to get further services,” volunteer Mandla Mthembu said when asked how they’re helping.
Support for the unhoused is also coming from the community. Barry Mahgar stopped by to check on friends who are living here.
“Ten years ago you never saw any tents popped up around the city or anything like that and it’s just a shame to see,” Mahgar said.
There have been a couple of close calls with drugs. Trained volunteers on-site have been able to help.
“This girl, she almost [overdosed]. So I called one of the staff. I said I don’t know what to do. I’m not a nurse,” Delia Bear, a camp supporter said.
The supports bring hope. Charlene Netowayasin lived on the streets until a few months ago when she was connected with the Phoenix Residential Society.
“I’m really grateful for Phoenix because they helped me with a beautiful house and a beautiful home. Definitely, they did, seriously. You know and I’m really grateful for them,” she said.
Not everyone is ready to receive help or may have needs beyond what’s available. For them, volunteers are providing food and a tent in a place that is safe.
-- With files from David Prisciak.
