Boyle Street boiling point

THE MOVE by Boyle Street Community Services to a new building has generated a lot of opposition from local business owners.

For example, Chai Tran, owner of the Lucky 97 Supermarket, which is adjacent to the new location, says the move will have a negative impact on businesses in the area, and that it will raise safety concerns.

However, I would like to argue that improving services in a dense area is better than spreading the homeless across a city.

First, concentrating services in one area is more efficient and cost effective. When services are spread out across the city, it becomes more difficult to provide comprehensive care for the homeless population. It also makes it harder for service providers to co-ordinate with each other and with other agencies to provide a holistic approach to the issue of homelessness. Concentrating services in a dense area allows for more efficient use of resources and enables service providers to work together more effectively.

Second, having services in one area can help to build a sense of community and support. When people know that they can find help and support in a particular area, they are more likely to go there to seek assistance. This can help build a sense of community among the homeless population and help reduce feelings of isolation and hopelessness.

When services are spread out across the city, it becomes more difficult for people to access them, and they may feel discouraged from seeking help.

Boyle Street stands firm on new location

Trying to thrive on 107th Avenue

Third, providing services in one area can help reduce the stigma associated with homelessness. Spreading services across the city can reinforce negative stereotypes and make it easier for people to ignore the issue of homelessness. Concentrating services in a dense area may help to raise awareness of the issue and encourage people to think more deeply about the root causes of homelessness.

In the case of Boyle Street Community Services, the move to a new building on 107th Avenue is a positive step toward improving services in a dense area. The issues local business are concerned about already exist in the area, says Elliott Tanti, senior communications manager at Boyle Street. And, he says, the new building will help alleviate those issues.

Of course, it is important to address the concerns of local business owners and to work with them to mitigate any negative impacts that the move may have on their businesses. However, we should not let these concerns overshadow the importance of improving services in a dense area.

By doing so, we can provide better care for the homeless population, build a sense of community and support, and reduce the stigma associated with homelessness.