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HomeNewsCampbell River Coalition to End Homelessness gears up for 2021 homeless count

Campbell River Coalition to End Homelessness gears up for 2021 homeless count

The local Coalition to End Homelessness (CRDCEH) is keeping busy, as its staff prepares for Campbell River’s upcoming ‘Point-in-Time’ homeless count.

It’s happening on April 9th, and will provide a 24-hour snapshot of the estimated number of people experiencing homelessness around town.

“The last time Campbell River had a homeless count was in 2018. That year, it was estimated that on any given day 81 people were homeless,” the coalition says. “Keep in mind, that these counts tend to underestimate actual numbers and are not meant to represent a true total.”

The CRDCEH will work in partnership with the Province of B.C.

According to the coalition, the Province first undertook provincially-funded homeless counts in 2018. Then in 2020, they expanded and planned to roll-out 16 counts across the province.

“They completed eight counts, however due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the remaining eight, including Campbell River, were postponed,” it says.

To ensure the health and safety of those conducting the survey, as well as people experiencing homelessness, the Province has created a mitigation strategy that’s been reviewed by the Office of the Provincial Health Officer.

“The counts will only be done if it is safe to do so and if partners wish to proceed,” the coalition says.

“Surveys will be conducted primarily by shelter staff and outreach teams instead of volunteers. This will ensure that people experiencing homelessness will only be in contact with people who are familiar with safety protocols.”

All survey administrators will practice physical distancing and use Personal Protective Equipment, and wherever possible, the coalition says count activities will take place outside.

“Rather than hosting a community event, it will rely on existing networks amongst peers, service providers and outreach teams.”

The coalition says homeless counts give important information on the estimated number, key demographics and service provision needs of people experiencing homelessness.

It adds that the data collected will include findings such as gender, age, Indigenous identity, racial identity, health conditions, service use, and factors that contribute to homelessness.

“This data will help us and local communities better understand who is experiencing homelessness and why – and the results can inform the development of supports and services that will best help people in need, in different communities,” the CRDCEH says.

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