I was actually surprised that so few people would not report an encampment in their community. That was our News Poll question. Which because of the need for brevity, tends to make a complex issue more black and white than it is. I was among the 18 per cent who would not report an encampment, but I based that on it not being a large encampment which of course creates problems of its own for the community and people in that place many who are just trying to exist. We have an encampment in my neighbourhood – but very small and very hidden. I suspect these are those people who are on the fringes and don’t want to be around the homeless shelters or around any other encampments, that they’ve got each other and just stay out of the way. I may even grab some sandwiches and fruit and some winter gear like warm socks, toques, mitts, scarves and drop some items nearby to alleviate what am sure is a very difficult existence. Those items by the way are very much desired in any of the shelters in town as well as The Friendship Inn. At Christmas I often put together multiple packages, sometimes if I have some decent purses that I haven’t used, I include that and drop them by the YWCA for the women’s shelter. I could give a cash donation and get a tax receipt and whatnot but I like the idea of taking the time and the interest in picking out items someone might appreciate at a difficult time of their lives. By the way, Campbells soup I believe is on sale at the Coop – that’s another great way to help the food bank. Just an idea.