Regional Homelessness Plan for Greater Vancouver: April 2001

A preliminary version (April, 2001) of the Regional Homelessness Plan for Greater Vancouver, which was sent out to stakeholder for review. The guiding principle of the plan is that there is a need for a continuum of services in the areas of housing, income assistance and support services in order to alleviate homelessness in the GVRD. The plan identifies urgent housing priorities (minimal barrier emergency shelters; transition house beds; supportive housing units; permanent affordable housing); urgent support services priorities (outreach and drop-in centres; mental health services; prevention services; addiction treatment). Key statistics are presented to illuminate shortcomings of current housing, employment and social programs policy. Policy statements and strategies for action and change are provided for each key issue identified. An inventory of facilities and services in the areas of housing and support is provided in the appendices.