Full Podcast: https://lovethenorth.ca/article/260920-sudbury-ward-10-derek-young What if addressing homelessness and panhandling meant creating opportunities for people rather than simply moving them somewhere else? In this episode of Love the North, Greater Sudbury Ward 10 candidate Derek Young discusses his proposed "Changing Hearts" program, an initiative aimed at helping vulnerable individuals gain employment experience, develop practical skills, and rebuild their lives. Inspired by similar community initiatives, Changing Hearts would focus on providing alternatives to panhandling through meaningful work, training, and community partnerships. For someone struggling with homelessness, poverty, or unemployment, having a job can mean much more than earning a paycheque. It can restore confidence, create structure, build relationships, and provide a sense of purpose. But there's another side to this conversation. Downtown businesses and residents are increasingly concerned about public safety, cleanliness, and the challenges associated with homelessness and addiction. Could a program that helps vulnerable individuals find meaningful employment also contribute to a safer, cleaner, and more welcoming downtown? Young believes revitalizing downtown Sudbury requires balancing compassion with accountability, while creating opportunities for individuals who want to improve their circumstances. Of course, employment alone cannot solve homelessness. Affordable housing, mental health services, addiction treatment, and ongoing support remain important pieces of the puzzle. The bigger question is whether investing in people today could reduce social service costs while strengthening our community tomorrow. Could Changing Hearts become part of the solution for downtown Greater Sudbury? #LoveTheNorth #GreaterSudbury #DerekYoung #Ward10 #ChangingHearts #DowntownSudbury #Homelessness #SudburyElection2026