President's Message 

 

 

 

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The meeting opened with the Rotary Song and O Canada with 25 members and 3 guests in person plus 5 by Zoom. The first meeting with a served breakfast for a long while, opened with speaker introduction and the start of the program but was then paused while the meal was eaten (and appreciated) by members. PP Phyo had introduced the delegation from Kate’s Rest, Ryan Brough, Brian Hart and Dr Michael Shannon whom several of our members knew, or knew of, from our visits to Kate’s Rest (KR) and previous presentations and discussions.

Dr Michael Shannon, a KR Foundation founding Board Member has had an extremely illustrious career in military medicine and has now turned his energies upon the problem of homelessness, specifically through his efforts on behalf of KR which has recently transitioned from private ownership and direction to Registered Charity and governing Foundation. Dr Shannon reminded us of the toll that homelessness takes and many causes and consequences of this growing problem, particularly in rural areas like the County. He emphasized the staying power of the remodelled operation, the unanimity of support from various bodies and that the ‘model’ of KR was applicable in other locations. He cited relevant academic studies, explained about the Board and thanked our Club for what we have already done to support KR.

Brian Hart, former owner and ‘guardian angel’ of KR, for many years, then spoke. For those not familiar with KR, he described the number of dwellings on the property and some major, recent, infrastructure upgrades for water and sanitation. These and other essential improvements had secured grants which covered most of the major costs. Brian went on to remind us that the impact of inflation and rapidly rising accommodation costs are pushing more and more people, of all ages, into homelessness. This robs them of basic shelter and has a huge, negative, effect on mental and physical health. KR provides not only the bare necessities of life, it also represents a permanent supportive environment and creates a sense of permanence that too few residents have previously experienced. KR is currently the only supportive housing initiative in the four neighbouring counties as the shelter in Belleville can only offer short stays.  KR is accommodating twenty residents at present and is at full capacity, having, regretfully and regularly, to turn others away. Given their circumstances, regular health care is inaccessible leaving less acceptable options, i.e. Emergency or tele-health. In the past, many residents have been able to transition to other life-styles with the help of advocacy, support for education etc. A feeling of security combined with opportunities to contribute to individual and communal goals and efforts can help establish productive and positive individual attitudes and outcomes. To this end, KR is hoping to re-establish the aquaponics project that had been doing well pre-Covid. It was particularly hit by the cancellation of the order for 2,000 poplar trees that the Trenton Base had wanted. This pilot project using a closed-loop and organic method of cultivation showed that it is a viable and environmentally-attractive agricultural process that can produce many kinds of foods, especially vegetables, and potentially provide income to KR as well as giving purpose, motivation and skills to the producers. As it turns out, Rotary is already a supporter of such projects which meet several of its climate and food security objectives. With this in mind, as well as past actual experience, Brian made a direct appeal to our Club to support this aspect of KR’s activities in as many ways as possible. In concluding his presentation, Brian summarized the recent changes at KR including the appointment of Ryan Brough as VP Operations, the infrastructure installation, incorpotation, successful grant application and future 5 year stategic plan. Reiterating the therapeutic benefits of greater self-sufficiency, Brian specifically requested the Club’s time and talents for this project plus assistance in communications and advocacy.

Ryan Brough took over from Brian to explain his recent experiences and ambitions in preparing for his new role at KR and took questions. Pres Elect Ken pointed out that our involvement with KR meets Rotary goals for 2022-2023 such as Diversity, Equality and Inclusiveness and presents the opportunity to initiate an Environmental Project. Ryan thanked the Club for its past help and was in turn thanked by Linda who commented that, although she had at first been skeptical, she was now convinced of the benefits of support for KR.

In Club business, MPres Trudy addressed Bottle Bill’s needs, received up-dates on the successful sales of D & D books and maple syrup, announced our participation in the Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup through the beach cleaning and a barbecue for and celebrating FoRs on Sat. April 23rd. Volunteers were solicited and responded. Announcements and donations were reported, including to PECI. Lana and Norm were congratulated on their birthdays and the meeting closed at 8.25 after the 4 Way Test.

 

 

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9 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Chris Compeau
Needed:  1 Cashier, 1 Sorter/Receiver

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Dawn Cutler, Doug & Brenda Little (FoR)
 

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