COVID Signpost.pdf

COVID-19 has changed life in Canada's cities, with British Columbia accounting for 13.5% of the population and 5.6% of COVID-19 cases. As of September 27, 2020, BC had 8,304 cases and 227 deaths, with Vancouver having 1,819 cases and 77 deaths. A survey of 90,000 Canadians found that 11% of households in Canada and 12% in BC had experienced COVID-19 symptoms, with 22% of households in Canada and 21% in BC reporting a major impact on their household. The pandemic has also affected employment, with unemployment rates at 10.9% in Canada and 11.6% in BC, and 17% of people in Canada and 19% in BC reporting job loss. In Victoria, 1,523 individuals were found to be experiencing homelessness, with 90% having at least one health challenge, and the city has taken steps to provide shelter and support, including creating an outdoor shelter and purchasing motels for conversion to supportive housing. However, there is a growing cry to "take our parks back" and deny supportive housing, with criticism of the city's 24/7 camping rule and vitriolic attacks on the mayor and council. Despite this, a community is emerging in the encampment, with relationships forming between housed and unhoused residents, and service providers and community members offering support and donations.