Cranbrook’s social development coordinator has been working with the city to address issues faced by the community’s unhoused residents.
Marcel Germer, Cranbrook’s social development coordinator said the situation is not unique.
“I think it’s a similar situation as many towns and cities across B.C. in that there is a culmination of crises that are happening all at the same time that are impacting the amount of people we can house,” said Germer. “Our homeless population isn’t huge, there just isn’t housing to get them into at the moment. We’re working hard to increase that and to find alternatives.”
Germer said the city has been working to maintain connections with Cranbrook’s homeless population.
“The city, led by Bylaw officers, has a fairly rigorous approach. Every day of the week, bylaw goes out and checks in with the encampments to check on welfare and wellbeing,” explained Germer. “They also address any issues or concerns that come up.”
The team is joined by a cleaning crew three to four times a week to maintain the site.
Germer said she usually joins them.
“We do out and clean up the encampments,” said Germer. “During that time, we’re also engaging with residents in the encampments to find out what their needs are.”
Germer and the crew members will encourage residents to get in touch with social services if they feel ready for that step.
If they are, the social development coordinator will get in touch with the appropriate organization that will be able to help them.
Germer said the city has decided to have a role in leadership and active engagement.
“Without having someone who not only has boots on the ground working in the encampments with the residents but with all our supports and resources in the community, there can be a sort of arms-length approach to finding solutions,” said Germer.
She noted that having that cooperation will help Cranbrook stay informed on the situation and get vulnerable residents in touch with any resources they may need.
Germer said it’s important to remember that most people are not homeless by choice.
“We have people living out there who are totally willing and able to be in a house and have a job, maybe with some support, but there isn’t a place for them to go, there isn’t a house they can afford,” said Germer.
“They are a very important part of the fabric of any community, they have stories and experiences and family,” said Germer. “It’s a community challenge that we need to come together to find a resolution for.”