Officials at the Summer Camp program at YMCA Northumberland have been dealing with a number of homeless at an encampment near their property.
In a letter sent to parents and guardians on August 6 it stated that, “a small number of individuals experiencing homelessness who have set up temporary shelters in the forested area south of the YMCA, within James Cockburn Park.”
Although the area is not part of YMCA property, Eunice Kirkpatrick President & Chief Executive Officer stated, “please be assured that we continue to take every necessary step to ensure the safety and well-being of all Y camp participants, members, volunteers, and staff.”
Police, by-law and members of the fire service are “managing the situation,” state Kirkpatrick with trespass notices being issued.
It’s unknown if the encampment has been removed, but Today’s Northumberland took a walk through the area just south of the YMCA property on Wednesday, August 13 noticing at least one encampment still in the area.
Kirkpatrick said the safety of our campers, volunteers, and staff “remains our highest priority.”
“All YMCA programming is continuing as scheduled, with the same high standards of care and attention that families have come to expect.”
But one parent told Today’s Northumberland that children haven’t been allowed to play in certain areas due to the encampment/s restricting their playground area.
Today’s Northumberland reached out to Kirkpatrick several times with no response but stated in the note to parents that, “Should you have any questions or wish to speak with someone on our team, please feel free to contact either myself or the Centre Manager, Marta Wein.”
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
