As a concerned citizen of Hamilton, ON, Canada, I am deeply troubled by the growing encampments in Hamilton and specifically the North End and East End. These encampments are inappropriate for community public spaces but also pose a serious threat to human dignity and safety of those who live there. The living conditions within these encampments are unacceptable for any individual and are inhumane. 

Parks are littered with needles, garbage and human waste creating an unsafe environment for all - the homeless residents of the camp and tax-paying citizens alike. Our children are being exposed to open drug use and people in crisis on a daily basis.

According to recent statistics from the City of Hamilton's Public Health Services (2019), there has been an alarming increase in discarded needles found across city parks over the past few years. This poses significant health risks including potential exposure to Hepatitis C and HIV.

Furthermore, it is important to note that public spaces like Bayfront Park and community parks are funded by taxpayers' money meant for community enjoyment and should not be misused as makeshift housing areas.

There has to be a better way forward to all who are impacted. 

We are advocating for safety and welfare for the homeless and our community. We are advocating that we don’t settle with our current response. We don’t have too. We can demand a better way forward. 

This is a complex issue. We need a collective response.

Humanity is capable of doing much better in serving the marginalized and maintaining public safety.

This is going to cost money, take coordination, compassion and an all hands on deck approach (all levels of government, community services, faith groups, neighborhoods and the homeless).

This situation calls for immediate action from our City officials and all levels of Canadian Government. We demand that they take necessary measures to address the homelessness crisis in our City promptly while ensuring personal safety for both homeless individuals seeking shelter as well as citizens who wish to use public parks without fear or discomfort.

We ask that our City find a temporary building and set up a shelter with all the wrap around supports a person might need to break the cycle of homelessness, address addictions and mental health concerns with dignity.  Helping people to barely survive in at tent is not acceptable.  

Please sign this petition if you believe in preserving our public spaces while advocating for proper support systems for those experiencing homelessness. Let us work together towards a safer, cleaner Hamilton where everyone's rights are respected.