I've been thinking a lot lately about the problem of homelessness (temporary or chronic), displacement and housing scarcity in our city recently. It really bothers me how severe it seems to be getting and I wish I could do something about it. Despite the best efforts of outreach programs in Kelowna, it doesn't seem like the programs in place address the problem inherent in the system.

A Housing First policy acknowledges the need for a person to acquire shelter stability before any other aspect of their life situation can be improved. Whether the barrier is financial hardship, lack of education, mental health/addiction, persistent functional barriers like low income with dependents, low social standing, or a combination of factors, evidence shows that without shelter stability the individual is statistically unable to overcome these adversities. Only when they become shelter-stable are the able to help themselves.

I personally believe that our city should act as soon as possible to address the housing crisis by implementing a housing first policy. I was was a) wondering if you guys know of any activist groups that are trying to advocate for such a policy and b) curious to know your thoughts on what ought to be done about housing instability here.