Darren Burns is one of over 100 people living on the streets of St. Stephen, New Brunswick

In the quiet corners of St. Stephen, New Brunswick, a small rural town of around 5,000 people near the international border, a crisis is unfolding as more and more locals find themselves living on the streets. Among those affected is Darren Burns, a former worker who recently found himself without a home due to the changing landscape of housing in the area.

Darren shared his story with CHCO-TV's Vicki Hogarth, revealing the harsh realities faced by many in the community.

"It's cost of living is ridiculous," he said, recalling the days when his rent was a manageable $380 a month. However, a twist of fate occurred when a company from outside the province bought multiple units in the area, leaving Darren and countless others without a place to call home.

"Now rents are $1,100. I mean, if you're working, that's fine. If you're not working, it puts you on the street," Darren explained, highlighting the stark choice that many in St. Stephen are facing.

Darren revealed the number of locals now living on the street is now in triple digits. "There was 100 people here a month and a half ago, at least 103, I think we counted in total that were out. Husbands and wives with children."

Forced into makeshift living conditions, Darren described the challenges of trying to survive in tents set up behind businesses like Ganong's and Canadian Tire. However, these temporary shelters are not safe from interference. "And then they just come keep and they run them out, and I don't know what's the problem," Darren lamented, hinting at the struggles faced by the homeless community in finding a stable place to stay.

Addressing misconceptions about homelessness, Darren emphasized, "Well, they think that if you're homeless, you're either on drugs, an alcoholic, and that's not the way it is. I've met some; it could be anybody. Like it could happen to you."

The struggles extend beyond housing, as Darren shared the story of Gordy, a 65-year-old man hit with a brick while sleeping behind a downtown bar. "He said, we can't afford to rent. Cost to live in the grocery store is ridiculous. Since COVID whenever it ended, everything went what you'd pay 230, $40 for is now like $500. So it's like doubled," Darren explained, shedding light on the compounding factors contributing to the crisis.

Darren's journey reflects a year-long struggle, from working at the port in St. Andrews Bayside to battling cataracts and eventually finding himself without a place to live. The heart-wrenching reality is that those seeking affordable rents are met with closed doors. "If you rented from this person, they won't rent to you; nobody else will rent to you," Darren revealed, underscoring the desperation faced by those in search of a home.

As winter approaches, Darren and others find themselves battling the cold streets, a stark reminder of the urgent need for community support, affordable housing solutions, mental health support and a reevaluation of the rising cost of living that is pushing people like Darren to the brink.