Tim Hortons review: homeless shelter?

There is a Tin Horton's located on 105 st and Whyte ave in Edmonton Alberta that has recently and unwillingly become a shelter for homeless street people in the area. I frequent this location several times a week as do others from the area and in conversation with others we have noticed this problem getting out of control, particularly in the evening. At first, there were a few isolated incidents of people sleeping in chairs, sometimes on the floor. The staff have tried to remove them with as little conflict as possible and on occasion had to summon police. The problem has now escalated to the point that today, during the afternoon, there were three individuals sleeping in the restaurant. While waiting to place my order this afternoon I noted other customers who came in, took one look, and left without ordering. Having witnessed this I can only conclude that the profitability of this location is being affected.

I have spoken to the staff about this a few times and they are at their wits end to find a solution. There have been times the indigent won't leave and the staff cannot rely on the police to be on hand. Although they have not voiced it, I also believe some are also intimidated by the offenders and fear for the safety of the customers, their own personal safety, and the possibility of reprisals when coming to or going from work not to mention the possible vandalism to their parked vehicles while they work their shift.

Now I realize that the Tim Horton's chain has a reputation for being charitable and believe that it is good public relations. However, in this case, it is no longer a case of being charitable to others less fortunate. When it come to these individuals, it is now abuse. They are in fact a blight. During the warmer months they would seldom try this type of thing as there are more than a few daily customers, primarily motorcyclists, who would gladly assist the staff to remove them should they become aggressive or violent. With the winter months however, these customers are absent for the most part.

Although it is unfortunate and costly, I believe, as others do, it would behoove the owner to retain the services of a security contractor to correct the situation before it gets any further out of hand. In my opinion, to leave it to continue on will only create even further problems and drive off more clientele.