Electricity now available to those living in tents in Grande Parade

By CityNews Halifax Staff

A welcome relief has come to those facing the bitter cold in tents at Halifax’s Grande Parade, with thanks in part to a tireless volunteer.

Stephen Wilsack, who has been advocating for nearly two dozen residents living in tents outside Halifax City Hall says electricity is now being provided through volunteer and Halifax Regional Municipality efforts.

He tells CityNews Halifax power will help provide light, phone-charging capabilities and potentially heat to those in the encampment.

“It is a total game changer in comfort level,” he says. “We are talking about people in tents in January (and) by no means is this the answer, but at least it is a glimmer of hope.”

Wilsack adds the city is spending around $20,000 dollars to bring power to those Grande Parade residents, however a ban remains outlawing all types of heaters at this point.

He says he’s hoping the next step will come soon courtesy of the province which is expected make an announcement on a shelter for people living at grand parade in the coming days.