Vulnerable people in the qathet region will have greater access to local services that will help tackle homelessness as the community recovers from the impacts of the pandemic.
“Communities up and down the Sunshine Coast are doing incredible work to support some of our most vulnerable members,” stated Nicholas Simons, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast, in a media release. “I’m pleased to say that work will continue and expand with these supports, and I am so grateful to the people on the front line providing assistance and support to fellow community members.”
City of Powell River, in partnership with qathet Regional District and Tla’amin Nation, is receiving $772,199 to expand and enhance services, programs and support systems for people. Simons stated this investment is part of the strengthening communities program, which is providing support to 48 communities across BC. More than $76 million will support local governments to combat the impacts of homelessness and keep their communities safe and healthy as they recover from the pandemic.
“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, with additional funding from the federal and provincial governments, we have managed to house many homeless people in shelter spaces, but this is a temporary solution. We need longer-term planning,” stated City of Powell River councillor Maggie Hathaway, in a media release. Hathaway holds the portfolio for social action and planning, and affordable housing on city council, and chairs the housing roundtable.
“A lack of affordable housing in Powell River has been an ongoing issue since I initially took office in 2008 and over the last 13 years it has become a crisis on an alarming scale,” added Hathaway. “Suitable sustainable housing for all is a lofty goal, but in my opinion, doable.”
The city release stated the funding will help protect public health and safety, prepare for potential future waves of the virus, and further support the safe reopening of economies, and that temporary full-time staff will be hired to support coordination and implementation.
The release stated that according to engagements by staff and nonprofit organizations, it is known that there are more than 80 community members in the qathet region experiencing homelessness, and who have increasing health risks. The release stated they are living in public and private spaces without consent and living in places not intended for permanent human shelter, including vehicles, garages, sheds and makeshift shelters in parks and forests.
