A Better Tent City doing its part, but more needed to tackle homelessness

Since 2020, A Better Tent City has been giving people hope by supporting those experiencing homelessness with all of their necessities.

The space, which was co-founded by Jeff Willmer and the late Ron Doyle, offers shelter, housing and wraparound supports. It'smade up of tiny shed-like homes and can accommodate50 people.

NadineGreenhas worked tirelessly to support people who have fallen through the cracks and lives her mission as an on-site coordinator.

Both Willmer and Green are being recognized as a pair of Waterloo region Changemakers.

"It's amazing knowing that we can help people who would've been just walking around with bags on their back and having no hope," Green said in an interview with The Morning Edition show host Craig Norris.

"I've heard people say'Nadine, if it wasn't for A Better Tent City, I don't know if I'd be alive'. I've heard from parents calling saying 'Thank you for helping my child.'"

Long-termsolutionneeded

Willmer, whohas worked in various government roles, including urban planning and as Chief Administrative Officer, spoke to Norris about the increasing need over the past pandemic years.

"There is so much more demand than there is supply," he said.

Willmerdescribed A Better Tent City as an interim solution, but not a permanent one. He said the region needs affordable, supportivehousing units to help reduce homelessness.

Watch a clip:

In this video clip, Green explains how the space has helped save lives, meanwhile Willmer shares more about what's needed to reduce homelessness in the region.

WR Changemakers: Nadine Green and Jeff Willmer

12 months ago

Duration 2:17

Nadine Green and Jeff Willmer of A Better Tent City are being recognized for their work supporting people experiencing homelessness in Waterloo region.

Listen to the full interview:

Waterloo region Changemakers10:05Waterloo region Changemakers: Nadine Green and Jeff Willmer

CBC K-W's Waterloo region Changemakers project aims to highlight people who have made a positive impact on the community through their work and story. The project is to honour the team's 10 year anniversary in the region. Nadine Green and Jeff Willmer are being recognized for their work with A Better Tent City. Green is the site coordinator and Willmer is the co-founder.