A number of factors have come together requiring a pause in our regular weekly service.  Over the past 8 years, the numbers of homeless people, their needs, and the alternative services now available, make it appropriate for us to have a pause and reflect on what is our best course for the future.  In addition, we are no longer able to use the parking lot behind the Capital Six (Empire) theatre for setup.  We have gone from a very small operation to one where we may see 75 people looking for our services, and a large group of volunteers, at this one location alone. We have greatly appreciated the cooperation of the theatre management (who provided us with space inside to store some of our carts), and Robbins parking (who initially provided us with a free parking pass). The large crowd we attract, and some of the problems a few of them bring, has meant that we have outgrown what this space can provide without having an impact on the paying customers of the lot.  

Several of the original founders are in need of a break from the constant work that goes on behind the scenes.  It is expected that a general meeting of members and volunteers will be held at the end of August to reassess and consider how we can adapt to the situation at that time.

Al sent out a reminder that Christmas Day and New Year's Eve fall on Fridays this year.  Some of you volunteers will be busy, others may be planning to come out as usual. CARTS goes out every Friday; we have never missed one.

To help in planning of what to bring for handing out on those days, could you volunteers let Al or Charon know if you are coming, preferably by Tuesday or Wednesday of the holiday weeks. Thanks!

We are still experimenting with a new website for CARTS. What you see is just the basics.  How does it look to you?  What else would you like to see in the way of news?  What would YOU like to say?  Please post a comment, a news item, or whatever, using the "comments" link.  We are looking at how to use this feature to let people  get in touch with each other, not just with the site administrator. Help us take this for a test drive! Or, if you have a private comment personal question, you can use our Contacts page form.

Click here for the October 10 '09 Times Columnist article "Dancing your Socks off for Charity".Thank you to the Times Columnist!

Click here for the October 9 '09 Victoria News article "Sock-hop to Help Homeless Stay Dry". Thank you to the Victoria News!