Postings on a Saskatoon bar’s Facebook page set off a social media firestorm Saturday.
The posts, published by the Winston’s English Pub page, centered on The Lighthouse in downtown Saskatoon and spoke of the apparent effect the supported living centre has had on the city.
The first post, published around midnight, asked if The Lighthouse has brought a criminal element to city’s downtown. The Lighthouse provides emergency shelter as well as affordable housing to those in need.
“Nothing? No issues? Or has it done damage to a growing and flourishing downtown by bringing an element of criminal activity that is being ignored by city council and police department (sic),” the post read.
The posts purported not to be an attack on the homeless, The Lighthouse or the people who live there, but questioned whether The Lighthouse attracted criminals to the area.
“I am not against the Light House (sic). People in need, need assistance. That is fine. But the other ppl (sic) it brings to downtown are the problem.”
Guests at the Hotel Senator refuse to return to the hotel because they feel uncomfortable in downtown Saskatoon, the posts claimed.
Comments quickly racked up on the Winston’s page followings the statements, with several commenters chastising the posts and defending The Lighthouse.
“What city doesn't have these problems in their downtown core area?” user Barry Badrinath wrote.
Many called for a boycott of Winston’s.
Other commenters said they agreed with the posts.
“I agree. Can’t even go to a movie without being harassed for change or a smoke,” said Chad Hoskins.
The page issued a statement around noon apologizing for the original posts.
“I apologize if my comments came off harshly or in the wrong light, or negatively about The Lighthouse as it provides a great service for people in need,” the statement read.
“What we need to deal with and work on is the safe environment for everyone downtown.”
The posts had totalled over 600 comments in just under 20 hours.
