A press release from the Abbotsford chapter of B.C./Yukon Drug War Survivors says that occupants of the former homeless camp at Jubilee Park "hope to begin the healing process" over Christmas.
The release says the members forgive the City of Abbotsford for what is being done to them in their "forced exodus" from the park on Saturday, Dec. 21.
"The dragging of our personal belongings through the mud, the refusal to let our members back to retrieve their property still in the park and the lack of respect for our personal property remains a highly offensive reminder of the City's approach to our members."
The release states that the members look forward in the new year to returning to discussions about long-term leases on municipal land.
They hope to build a more permanent structure on such land, from the plywood that was used in the temporary shelter on the parking lot next to Jubilee Park.
That structure was erected by concerned citizens on Dec. 10, but was taken down on Dec. 23 following a court-ordered injunction. The materials are now in storage in the public works yard.
The release states that the group would like to thank the citizens of Abbotsford who assisted them during their time in Jubilee Park by providing "food, drink, firewood, love and assistance."