As the world commemorates International Earth Day, it is crucial to recognize the interconnectedness between climate change and homelessness. While discussions often focus on melting ice caps and endangered species, the impact of climate change on vulnerable populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness, is often overlooked.

Here in the Capital Region, the Alliance to End Homelessness is sounding the alarm on how climate change exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals without shelter. From extreme weather events to rising temperatures, the effects of a changing climate are felt acutely by those who lack stable housing.

Traditionally, shelters are seen as a refuge during cold winter months, providing warmth and safety for those in need. However, as climate change brings about more frequent and severe weather patterns, including scorching heatwaves and destructive storms, the need for shelters extends far beyond the winter season.

The reality is that homelessness is not just a cold-weather issue; it is a year-round crisis. As temperatures soar to record highs in the summer months, individuals without shelter are left vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and dehydration. Without access to cooling centers or adequate shelter, they face life-threatening conditions.

Moreover, the impacts of climate change go beyond extreme weather events. Rising sea levels and increased urbanization can disrupt already fragile housing situations, forcing more people onto the streets. As natural disasters become more frequent, entire communities are displaced, putting additional strain on already limited resources for homelessness support.

In light of these challenges, the Alliance to End Homelessness urges all levels of government to prioritize funding for the provision of shelters throughout the year, not just during the winter months. It is imperative that we adapt our response to homelessness to reflect the changing climate reality. This means investing in year-round shelters equipped to handle both extreme cold and extreme heat.

As we reflect on International Earth Day, let us not forget those who are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. By taking action to address homelessness year-round, we can ensure that everyone has a safe and secure place to call home, regardless of the weather outside. Together, we can build a more resilient and compassionate community for all.

The Alliance to End Homelessness in the Capital Region applauds the Federal government’s $2B investment in the BC Builds initiative. The program focuses on building thousands of rental homes on public land that is underused. 20 potential sites have already been identified. The 8000-10000 rental units are aimed at providing middle-income earners some respite as more and more people struggle to access affordable housing which directly contributes to housing precarity and potentially, homelessness. For years, housing advocates have been asking governments for rent-geared-to-income housing where no more than 30 percent of income is spent on rent. With the rising costs of basic necessities, this is one of the many measures that our governments can undertake with a lens of homelessness prevention.

BC Builds will also use lower government borrowing rates to reduce construction costs. The province has also alluded to streamlining approval for projects to be completed in less than 18 months and local governments are looking at their processes to ensure that this ambitious plan is realized. As part of its mandate, the Alliance will continue to monitor and support progress on these initiatives through our shared accountability framework.

Strengthen the voice of the Alliance by becoming a member or by donating https://victoriahomelessness.ca/donate-now/. Help our organization realize our shared vision of a region, a province, and a country where everyone has a safe place, they can call home.