Today I had the privilege of dropping off a campaign flyer and a handmade button to Amanda (@elephant_feathers) and John.

They shared a story that has stayed with me.

Both are in recovery, with Amanda celebrating 12 years. She spoke openly about how recovery was only possible because she had the financial means to access therapy and ongoing support. Recovery isn’t simply about willpower – it requires stability, healthcare, housing, community, and opportunities that far too many people are denied.

We also spoke about grief. They’ve lost so many people over the years to addiction. During our conversation, I shared that I had just learned of the sudden passing of a friend, @steelcitystew. When I said his name, Amanda and John were stunned. They knew him too. This was someone who had been in their home many times, someone they loved and who had supported them over the years. It was another painful reminder of how interconnected our community is, and how every life lost leaves countless others grieving.

Amanda and John asked me to share their story because they want people to understand something important: they live in a beautiful home, have built successful lives, and from the outside appear to have everything together. But they see themselves as no different than the people struggling with homelessness and addiction on our streets today. They know how easily their lives could have taken a different path, and they believe many people are trapped not because they lack worth, but because our systems have failed them.

The @CityofHamilton needs to invest in addiction recovery, mental health care, and supportive and transitional housing. These aren’t handouts – they are the foundation that allows people to rebuild their lives, reconnect with their families, and contribute to our community.

Thank you, Amanda and John, for trusting me with your story and for your support. Your compassion, honesty, and courage are exactly what Hamilton needs.

#HamOnt #CDNPoli #ONPoli #YHMVote #YHMCC @norscanadaofficial @k33ping6 @sopenhamilton

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