I have lived in Dryden, Ontario for years and during this time, I have witnessed the struggles of our homeless community firsthand. The freezing winters and scorching summers provide no respite for those without a roof over their heads. Seeing people in our community who are battling homelessness and addiction with nowhere safe to go is both heart-wrenching and frustrating.

Dryden is known for its strong sense of community and resilience, yet we lack basic infrastructure to support our most vulnerable residents throughout the entire year.

Homelessness is not only a social and economic issue but a human rights concern. Every individual deserves safe and stable housing. As of 2021, it was estimated that more than 235,000 Canadians experience homelessness each year, with smaller communities like Dryden bearing a significant burden without adequate resources to tackle the situation locally.

A year-round homeless shelter will not only provide immediate relief but also open doors to long-term solutions for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues. By creating a supportive environment, we can offer more than a bed - we can offer hope, rehabilitation services, and a path to reintegration into society for those who need it most.

We urge the city council and community leaders to collaborate in establishing a permanent, year-round homeless shelter in Dryden. This can be achieved through partnerships with local businesses, non-profits, and government agencies to secure funding and resources necessary to maintain such a vital facility.

Your support can help build a compassionate and inclusive community. Please sign this petition to show your support for our homeless neighbors and urge our city leaders to take immediate action. Together, let's ensure that everyone in Dryden has a safe place to call home, regardless of the season.