One City Peterborough
With a focus on housing, One City is at the forefront in facing some of Peterborough’s greatest challenges. Their efforts are focused on supporting those who have experienced homelessness and/or criminalization toward their full inclusion into the community.
At the core of their work are programs that look to create stability and increase wellness for those experiencing criminalization and homelessness, such as housing, employment and support programs. Additionally, continual efforts are made to advocate for systemic change such as challenging laws that criminalize individuals; and some of their work addresses immediate needs, such as survival gear for folks sleeping outside.
Questions For One City
Christian Harvey, Co-Executive Director
Briefly describe the role of One City in Peterborough.
One City is committed to building a Peterborough where everyone belongs and together we flourish. We do this by supporting people experiencing homelessness and/or coming out of prison in three ways. First, through meeting immediate needs such as survival gear for people living outdoors, supportive housing, drop-in programs, free vet programs and much more. Second, we break down the barriers that separate us by providing employment through our social enterprises, support through our support groups, and self-expression through art and music programs. Thirdly, we advocate for systemic change such as challenging punitive bylaws, engaging in community education and amplifying the voices of those we support.
What do you feel is the single most important thing we can achieve in the coming year?
According to the City of Peterborough’s numbers in December, 299 people in our community are experiencing homelessness. I would love to say housing for all these individuals is the most important thing, and it is, but sadly we need to start even more basic. I think we need to be able to make sure all those individuals at the very minimum have the option of some sort of shelter, access to washrooms, food, water and showers. These basic necessities that we take for granted need to be a priority, and I believe these things are achievable.
What do you wish more people knew about the work that One City does in Peterborough?
That the work we do makes all of us safer. We often think that the quickest way to a safe community is to get rid of the other, whoever that other may be. That is the thinking behind bylaws such as the one that makes tenting in public spaces illegal, and yet the evidence shows us this isn’t true. Our communities become safer when everyone has their needs met and feel supported and like they have a pace. That is what we are committed to doing, and we invite others to join us.
Are there un-filled volunteer opportunities at One City right now?
We are looking for volunteers for our Circles of Support and Accountability Program. Volunteers sit in a circle with individuals who have caused harm to hold them accountable through supporting them.
If you could ask Wild Rock and it’s customers for support, what would you ask for?
Many of our programs are funded through donations, so this is always very welcome. We also could use your support with survival gear such as tents, blankets, tarps and other such items.
Finally, challenge those you know when you hear them speaking about those who are experiencing homelessness as if they are of little worth. When you listen to it, you hear this kind of language all around. We need to challenge the stories we tell.