Concerns continue to be raised about public safety in the neighbourhood surrounding Chatham-Kent’s temporary homeless shelter.
The emergency shelter opened on Murray Street this past June, but since then residents in the area say criminal activity, public drug use, and other concerning behaviour has spiked.
Ainslie Watson has lived in the neighbourhood for 10 years and says she fears for her family’s safety, especially that of her young son.
“We let him go across the street, we have that beautiful courtyard at the jail, and every time I (tell him) make sure you have shoes on and look out for needles, and we’ve had needles found across the street.” Watson says. “Tecumseh Park is no place to be after dark. There’s was probably 30 people on the stage camping out.”
Watson cites one specific incident in the park recently in which a makeshift shelter had been set up on the playground with drug paraphernalia and garbage strewn about.
“The park is there for people to enjoy, it’s not for people to live. We’re very thankful there were some people that stepped up and made it safe for the day, for however long until all these people come and trash it again.”
Watson says she would like to see more police patrols in the area, particularly at night.
She suspects the people causing trouble aren’t among those staying at the temporary homeless shelter just a few blocks away, but perhaps have been turned away and left to fend for themselves.
Particularly on social media, Watson says she’s been told to have more compassion for those struggling with addiction but says it’s hard when there are people running through her neighbourhood acting in a violent manner, abusing drugs, and yelling obscenities near children.
Municipal officials say they’re doing all they can to help those experiencing homelessness.
“I can’t speak about specific people or situations for privacy reasons, but can say in general when people appear to living outside in a public space, my team and other outreach groups visit them and offer help, services including shelter,” said Polly Smith, Chatham-Kent’s Director of Employment and Social Services. “Anyone experiencing homelessness is encouraged to call the Homeless Response Line available 24/7 at 519-354-6628.”
Lynette Holder is the Chatham-Kent Police Service Public Information Officer, and says the department regularly works with various municipal departments on issues in local parks and other public areas.
“The parks are public areas open to everyone but are also subject to rules and regulations,” Holder said in an email to CKXS News. “We will investigate any suspicious activity conducted by anyone when it is reported by the public or witnessed by officers. The actions we take depend on what our investigations reveal.”
Holder says members of the public should be mindful of their surroundings no matter where they are. Anyone spotting suspicious or concerning activity can call 519-352-1234.