Organizers hope a large number of people will show up at Market Square, 160 Principale Street, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. In the past, around 500 people showed up.
This 21st Night of the Homeless being held in Granby, under the theme “Homelessness 100 faces”, is an opportunity to emphasize its multiple facets.
“The event allows us to debunk prejudices.”
— Steve Bouthillier, president of GASP and co-spokesperson for Homeless Night
“I think it is important that such an event exists, in order to raise awareness among the population, and work on the level of cohabitation [entre itinérants et citoyens non-itinérants]», Underlined the mayor of Granby, Julie Bourdon, when announcing the event.
This symbolic evening is an opportunity to express our solidarity with people in situations of great vulnerability, she adds.
The highlight of the evening will be the reading of the letters of hope, according to Sylvie Martin, director of the transitional shelter for them. So many testimonies from residents of the house who have escaped homelessness.
The Night will also be the occasion for the distribution of soup and muffins, prepared in particular by community organizations.
A musical performance will enhance the evening.
Growing needs
The mayor recognizes that the needs for homelessness are increasing, but welcomes the recent announcement of the respite stop.
“Homelessness remains everyone’s business,” recalls Ms. Bourdon, while the City grants $3,000 to facilitate the holding of the event.
On the ground, Sylvie Martin notes that the problems are increasingly serious.
More acute mental health problems, drug addiction, poorly followed medical treatments…
“Consumption is so present among some women that we have to refuse to accommodate them, because they disorganize the group,” she says, recognizing that the respite stop will make it possible to accommodate this clientele.
“On the street, it’s incredible the high risk of danger for women. »
— Sylvie Martin, director of the Transition pour Elles shelter.
At the head of the Transition shelter for them, eight beds are offered to these women who can find accommodation for a few months.
The women welcomed are younger than before, “often 18, 19, 20 years old,” she says.
Related News :