Breaking the cycle of homelessness

B.C. proclaims October 11-17 Homelessness Action Week.

Ministry of Housing and Social Development

The Province is joining the rally of voices to raise awareness about homelessness in British Columbia by proclaiming Oct. 11-17 Homelessness Action Week, said Rich Coleman, Minister of Housing and Social Development.

“No one wants to see their loved ones and friends living on the street,” said Coleman. “Homelessness Action Week provides us with an opportunity to show people there is hope and assistance available, and all British Columbians can help.”

Since launching the provincial housing strategy Housing Matters BC in 2006, outreach workers across the province have helped about 7,000 people access medical care, addictions treatment and housing. About 80 per cent of those individuals remain in housing today.

A 40-year-old homeless man in Vancouver lived on the street for seven years, struggling with addiction and social anxiety issues. An outreach worker helped him get assistance and housing. The security of a stable home encouraged the man to look for a job. Less than six weeks later, he got a job at a gas station. He told his outreach worker that he never thought he would be part of the work force again.

Outreach workers in Victoria helped a young pregnant woman beat her heroin addiction, find housing and build life skills to raise a child in a stable home. The baby just celebrated her first birthday with her mom and the outreach team that supported them.

“We’re working with community partners and municipal governments to make a remarkable difference in people’s lives,” said Coleman. “The Province is committed to providing housing options and supports to people who are homeless or at the risk of homelessness so they can build independence for a healthier future.”

The provincial government has created nearly 14,000 new housing units since 2001 and has a commitment to build an additional 3,500. The units provide safe, affordable housing for low-income and homeless British Columbians.

This year, approximately $450 million will go toward social housing. More than 1,500 year-round emergency shelter beds are available in 31 communities. Nearly 90 per cent of them are open 24/7, providing a place to stay throughout the day and linking people to community services and housing.

The website ‘Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness’ provides a detailed look at provincial programs and services to address homelessness: www.bchousing.org/breakingthecycle

Victoria
October 9, 2009
Ministry of Housing and Social Development
2009HSD0054-000465