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A group of concerned residents took to the streets of Lower Sackville over the weekend to protest the placement of shelters in their community. The march, organized by Safe 4 Sackville, aimed to address the growing concerns surrounding the Pallet homes at the Beacon House on Metropolitan Avenue, located near Leslie Thomas Junior High and Sackville High School.
Residents claim that since the shelters were established, there has been an increase in open liquor bottles and discarded needles in the area. Dawn Chisholm, a parent who participated in the march, expressed her worries about the safety of both the community and the children. She highlighted the lack of communication and answers from officials, leaving many feeling uneasy about the situation.
The demonstration kicked off at the Academy Careers College and proceeded down Sackville Drive towards the Fultz House Museum, with participants carrying signs calling for the relocation of the shelters. Community members, including Chisholm, shared stories of unsettling encounters in the vicinity, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
Chisholm recounted incidents involving her son at Sackville High School, where he was approached by homeless individuals seeking drugs and money. She stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of all students and residents in the area. Another resident, Selina Whiting, shared frustrations over the lack of consultation and transparency from officials regarding the shelter placement.
The group is calling for the shelters to be relocated before the end of March break to create a safer environment for the community. Whiting expressed hope for a more suitable solution that would benefit both residents and those in need of assistance.
Chisholm also expressed concerns for the well-being of the individuals residing in the Pallet homes, urging for them to receive the support they require. She emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of homelessness while ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.
The residents of Lower Sackville are determined to see positive changes in their community and are actively advocating for solutions that prioritize safety and well-being. With continued pressure on officials, they hope to see a resolution that benefits all parties involved.
With files from CTV’s Paul Dewitt.
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