Homeless in “survivor mode” in the cold

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Vancouver’s homeless are extremely concerned about the bone chilling winter that has been predicted. The Union Gospel Mission is already over normal capacity for this time of year.

Those living on the street have been listening to whatever news reports are available to them.  Derek Weiss with the Union Gospel Mission says the homeless are now in “survivor mode” preparing for the cold. “Often, there are deep-rooted trust issues and that’s why many of them may refuse offers to come inside. They often prepare by finding a place that they do feel safe… often emotionally, but also physically.”

Weiss tells us they’re providing warm socks to those who come to the shelter and emergency survival kits to those who refuse to do so. Researchers say for every one person in Canada who is homeless, 23 others are right on the edge.