When we returned from France at the beginning of September, these tents were illegally pitched in the Church's Rest Garden where I walk with Billy every day; and they are still there. They probably could have chosen a better location, and a more suitable colour for their tents, but the occupiers obviously enjoy being there.
As opposed to a few, I have no real problem with them. As long as they don't leave their litter, stolen bikes, and used needles everywhere; they do no lasting harm.
Camping is OK in Summer, but I wouldn't be wanting to live in a small tent in the Winter. Two of the men have dogs, but the others are by themselves.
Usually at this time of year such people go home to parents, siblings, etc. But so far they are still braving the elements. No doubt they will go somewhere for Christmas Day, and it'll be interesting to see if they return.
I have tried camping on a couple of occasions, but I must admit; it's not for me! Give me a proper bed any day!
Because the Rest Garden is owned by the Church, no-one seems to be doing anything about this pop-up Camp Site. Others come and go, and there was recently a BIG tent pitched there. If nothing is done, it could soon get out of hand.
OK, they do leave SOME rubbish around, but I always keep a plastic bag in my back pocket, and I do what they were obviously never taught to do; and I pick it up!
Are you sure they didn’t just get off a rubber boat?
ReplyDeleteThey do speak a type of English.
DeleteWe rarely had tent dwellers in my city until 2020. Something happened, suddenly there tents popping up on greenbelts along highways.
ReplyDeleteWe always had a few in the river area but they were mainly First Nations people. When I worked in a clinic with a high transient population, I learnt a strange fact. First Nations people would leave the Reserve for six month of the year at a time. Spend six months in the city doing whatever, and then go back to the Reserve for the rest of the year. Some winter on Reserve, others leave the Reserve and spend the winters in city shelters. The more experienced staff knew the routines and where you could find someone.
It's almost like some group is funding social unrest and remaining hidden while doing so.
A lot of our street beggars have their cars parked nearby, then drive home each evening to their comfortable abodes after a successful day's conning!
DeleteDoes the city check on the tent dwellers?
ReplyDeleteWhen tent communities become dangerous for the dwellers and a public health issue, they are often forced to move to public housing or group homes.
I don't think they can be bothered.
DeleteHappy Christmas dearHeart 🩷🎅🏼
ReplyDeleteThank you John. I wish you the same. x
DeleteIt must be very cold and Uncomfortable for them. I would wish them a warm bed and hot meals..... though I've read that often they prefer their tents and independence.
ReplyDeleteIt's as much a 'life-style' as anything. They're happier being outside.
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