Full podcast: https://lovethenorth.ca/article/261018-ward-12-candidate-linnet-rimmer Have we become so focused on ourselves that we've forgotten the importance of looking after one another? In this episode of Love the North, Ward 12 candidate Linnet Rimmer shares a conversation with her hairdresser, who grew up in Nepal, that changed how she thinks about homelessness, addiction, and community. Despite having fewer financial resources, her hairdresser described communities where families and neighbours support one another, share what they have, care for people when they're sick, and work together to prevent others from falling through the cracks. It raises an important question: Why do we have so many people struggling with homelessness and isolation in a country as wealthy as Canada? Rimmer believes stronger communities, greater compassion, and a better understanding of addiction could help address some of the underlying causes of homelessness. She also challenges the assumption that people experiencing addiction or homelessness simply don't want help. Drawing from her own experience with alcohol, Rimmer explains why recovery and rebuilding a life aren't always as simple as making a choice. She discusses housing-first approaches in Helsinki, affordable housing initiatives in Vienna, and Greater Sudbury's own Raise the Roof program as examples of how stable housing and community support can work together. But housing alone isn't the entire answer. People also need connection, belonging, and someone who cares about their well-being. Could stronger neighbourhoods, earlier intervention, and people looking after one another help prevent more residents from becoming homeless? Sometimes making a difference starts with something as simple as helping a neighbour. #LoveTheNorth #LinnetRimmer #Ward12 #GreaterSudbury #Homelessness #CommunitySupport #MentalHealth #NorthernOntario