Social Services Are Stretched, But Community Still Shows Up in the Meantime

A cold morning, a pair of socks, and an unexpected moment of care highlight both the cracks in our system and the power of community response.

Photo by Jonathan Taylor on Unsplash

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION

A couple of Saturdays ago, my partner Kat and I were on our usual morning stroll to the Farmers Market and the library. Kat wanted to stop in at The Fabric Centre to pick up supplies for her renewed interest in sewing.

As we got closer, we noticed someone struggling to open the door, carrying a small snow shovel. They managed to get inside and staggered in, crouching in a corner as they fought to pull off their boots. They were clearly in pain and discomfort.

At first, I wondered if they were there to shovel the storefront, but after a moment, I asked if they needed any help. They responded sheepishly that they were okay — their feet were just frozen and hurting.

Then, almost jokingly, they asked if I happened to have a pair of socks.

At that point, the staff really stepped up. A caring employee came over with a pair of beautiful knitted socks and a thick scarf. The individual looked surprised and grateful. The employee then asked whether they’d like them to call the social navigators on the new Neighbourhood Response Team. They said yes.

I asked if they’d like something from Tim Hortons across the road. They requested a triple-triple and a bagel.

When I returned with the coffee and bagel and they’d warmed up a bit, we introduced ourselves and exchanged the usual pleasantries. They visibly relaxed, we shared a couple of jokes, and Kat and I continued on our way.

A short time later, I saw the same person strolling down 2nd Ave, looking cheerful and snug in their new socks.

Don’t get me wrong — I don’t think anyone should be canonized in this story. I share it because it’s a small but telling microcosm of what’s happening in our community.

We all know the situation by now. Downtown businesses aren’t meant to provide social services. Our local charities and NGOs are underfunded and overstretched, carrying the weight of two of our biggest challenges: housing and addiction.

Meanwhile, every level of government points the finger at every other level. As a citizen, it can be heartbreaking — and at times, leave you feeling helpless and angry.

But there are real, tangible things we can do when we see someone struggling. And you don’t always know how impactful a small gesture can be.

I’ve spoken with people who’ve recovered from addiction who describe a stranger’s kindness as a turning point — a moment where they felt seen, their humanity acknowledged, and something shifted in how they viewed themselves.

So here are a few pointers if you see someone who appears to be in distress and you’re not sure what to do:

• Ask. Simply say, “Hi, are you okay? Can I help in some way?” Most of the time, the answer will be a polite no. Sometimes it’s a request for food, a coffee, or spare change. If you’re not comfortable giving money, ask if you can buy them something — if you have the means.

• If someone is unresponsive or appears unconscious, call 911.

• Learn when to call Safe ’N Sound’s Neighbourhood Response Team instead of emergency services.

• Donate time and/or money. Our local care providers are overworked and underpaid.

• Advocate. Write to your MP, your MPP, City Council, and County Council. If they won’t take responsibility, vote for someone who will.

While governments debate jurisdiction and funding, community is what happens in the meantime — one pair of socks at a time.

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Thank you to sponsors of The Owen Sound Current Writers’ Fund, who make these community contributions possible. Contributions from the community do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of The Owen Sound Current and its editor or publisher.

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