immigrantscanada.com

Independent topical source of current affairs, opinion and issues, featuring stories making news in Canada from immigrants, newcomers, minorities & ethnic communities' point of view and interests.

Calgary and Disadvantaged Children

homeless community: MORE CALGARY NEWS $6M food bank donation has charities cheering MORE CALGARY NEWS Low-income Calgarians dig deep for sick and disadvantaged children But some members of Calgary homeless community say it doesn't have to be an "either/or" discussion, according to CBC. Zachary S. has been homeless in Calgary for about 18 months, but he says there is room to help both the homeless population and Syrian refugees. In the discussion around Syrian refugees coming to Canada, some people — especially online — have made helping the local homeless community first an online argument against supporting other groups. A man who has been homeless in Calgary for about 18 months says there is support for people in need locally. They were among about 250 people who showed up as Street Light, a group that helps Calgary homeless youth, handed out backpacks full of clothing and items to help people stay warm in cold weather on Saturday. Program director Allan Peters says there is definitely a need and Calgarians are generous in helping. Zachary S. says it doesn't need to be a competition for help. "It not their fault they're just in a really bad situation," Zachary said. "For another group to say, 'I've got the bigger stick now, listen' … and have no stick at all." Christina Cardinal needs permanent housing but says, 'It good to help everybody in need.' Christina Cardinal, who is in need of housing, says it possible to have more than one focus. "I think personally from my point of view, it is good to help everybody in need," Cardinal said. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.