A new coalition, known as Call4Change, has been formed in British Columbia ahead of the provincial election. The coalition is advocating for changes to low-barrier housing and an end to drug consumption sites in favor of more treatment-oriented housing and programs. Members of the coalition believe that while facilities for drug users are necessary, there needs to be a stronger focus on providing treatment and support for those struggling with addiction. One member, Mike Johnson, has expressed concern about a proposed 60-unit tiny home community for the homeless in Kelowna’s North Glenmore area, stating that residents were not adequately informed about the project.
Residents in the North Glenmore area are closely monitoring the situation in another neighborhood where a supportive housing complex opened in 2020. According to Tyler Zeeman, residents have witnessed open drug use, lewd behavior, and violence at all hours of the day and night in this area. The coalition is calling for the city and province to address the issues faced by individuals struggling with addiction, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding community. The housing ministry has stated that due to the upcoming provincial election, they are unable to provide additional information beyond what is publicly available on their website.
The Call4Change coalition has launched online petitions for affected neighborhoods and is committed to advocating for change until their concerns are addressed. Members of the coalition believe that it is crucial for the government to prioritize providing support and treatment for individuals struggling with addiction, while also ensuring that communities are safe and free from the negative impacts of drug use. The coalition is urging candidates in the provincial election to address these issues and make them a priority in their campaigns. The housing ministry has indicated that they will be unable to provide further information until after the election results and a new provincial government is formed.
Overall, the Call4Change coalition is dedicated to advocating for solutions to the challenges faced by communities dealing with issues related to addiction and homelessness. The coalition believes that a focus on treatment-oriented housing and programs, rather than simply providing low-barrier housing and drug consumption sites, is essential to addressing the root causes of addiction and supporting individuals in their recovery. By raising awareness of these issues and engaging in advocacy efforts, the coalition hopes to bring about meaningful change and ensure the well-being of both individuals struggling with addiction and the broader community.
