North Bay’s fight to end homelessness is going to be a tough battle, says volunteer

The fight to end homelessness in North Bay is going to be a hard one to win, says Deborah Metlin.

A volunteer with Hope Awaits has seen the increase in need both for a bed and a hot meal.

With only seven beds offering 15hour services, the all-men’s shelter is finding other ways to meet the demand they see at their door on a daily basis.

“We only have seven beds; we see men every day at our door. There hasn’t been any door that hasn’t been met by someone asking for something,” Metlin said.

She said the shelter isn’t equipped with staff or programs to deal with addictions or mental health concerns, therefore volunteers and staff refer the men who need that type of help to other services throughout the city.

What they have started to provide since last July is food for those who are hungry. It’s a gap they feel they can fill.

“Since last July people have been coming to our door every noon hour. We’ve packed lunches for them. But that need is increasing. We’re seeing men, women and children.”

Metlin said as a not-for-profit they can’t do it alone.

She said Hope Awaits is able to serve those in need due to donations from churches and members of the community.

Hope Awaits hopes that generosity extends Saturday when they hold their annual fundraiser at the North Bay Waterfront.

This year’s goal is $100,000 as of earlier this week volunteers had reached $52,000.

Metlin said the money will go to where it’s needed the most.

“We need longer hours to help men during the day. Intake is between 4 to 5 p.m. and they’re let out in the morning. The winter elements are a challenge,” she said, adding funding will also go toward bringing in more counsellors to help their clients.

“There’s always the fight to end homelessness. We all have the heart to give and want to see change.”

Metlin said North Bay is “bombarded” with so much homelessness “it’s heartbreaking.”

“We see so many corners filled, these people are someone’s brother. They had family, they had jobs, and for whatever reason it’s not always the addiction that takes them down, however that’s where they end up with no place to go, they’re just trying to survive day-by-day,” she said.

“We’re seeing change with Hope Awaits with the men who are getting jobs, skills training, just simply things like a birth certificate that shows they exist.”

The Homeless Night Challenge Fundraiser takes place Saturday at the Kiwanis Bandshell from noon to 7 p.m. There is a food tent, silent auction table and live music including Roadhouse.