Men's homeless shelter in Halifax running low on basics

Halifax's Metro Turning Point Centre, a homeless shelter for men, has put out an urgent request for basic supplies because it's running low on items like large bath towels, shaving cream, soap and deodorant.

"We are the most busy in the summer months," said Linda Wilson, executive director of Shelter Nova Scotia. "It's really wonderful that people remember us at Thanksgiving and Christmas but our need is actually even greater in the summer time."

Wilson said the shelter can serve up to 80 men at night — or about 500 individuals a year.

Running short

Supplies are so low that each morning, the men are given one squirt of shaving cream to shave. She said when they bathe, hand towels are the only thing they can use to dry themselves.

"There is no dignity in being homeless to begin with and then when you're experiencing it, it's even less of a dignified situation," said Wilson.

Donations can be more difficult to obtain for men, Wilson said. She said there are often more negative stereotypes and less sympathy for them.

Negative assumptions

"There are a bunch of assumptions made that they're lazy or they're addicted or they're doing something wrong," said Wilson.

"Years ago there was more opportunities for people to … shovel coal or do hard labour work. Well, those opportunities are no longer there, which leaves a large part of the population unable to support themselves."

How you can help

Donations can be made directly to Metro Turning Point Centre at 2170 Barrington St. in Halifax. Some suggested donations:

• Bath towels.
• Soap.
• Deodorant.
• Razors.
• Shaving cream.
• Sunscreen.
• Coffee mugs.