A homelessness and housing forum hosted by MP Yvonne Jones in conjunction with the Homeless Housing Coalition, was held in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Many community leaders were in attendance to voice their concerns and seek viable solutions to this issue. Ms. Jones invited several individuals who are currently in need of housing assistance. Their input provided a raw and unbridled glimpse of the situation.
“There are many contributing factors that cause a person to become homeless and we are not here to be judge and jury of the life-choices someone makes. We are here, because in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, approximately 40 people have no place to sleep and many others throughout Labrador are in the same situation. Some of them are forced to sleep in cars and in the woods,” stated Ms. Jones. “This is a serious issue that has affected Labrador for many years, and it is getting worse. I believe something can be done to help, and I applaud all the great minds in the room that voiced the need for urgent action.”
At the end of the morning’s forum it was decided a focused approach to devise a plan of urgent action for concrete solution, warranted further discussion. An in-depth meeting will be held by like-minded groups, government officials, and concerned citizens on Friday September 20, 2013. Ms. Jones was very pleased with the collective approach in seeking a positive resolution.
“All corners of Labrador are affected by homelessness. The issue does not distinguish between cultures; it affects Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals alike. As a society, we have the brain-power and will to unlock some of the closed doors in this community. A united group with a focus to eradicate homelessness can achieve that goal. I am truly looking forward to engaging in a meaningful and frank discussion, so that we can find a long-term solution.”
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Media contact:
Val Oliver
Goose Bay Office
709-896-2483 (T)
709-896-7826 (C)