SUNSHINE COAST – New Democrat MLA Nicholas Simons says vulnerable people in Gibsons, Powell River, and Sechelt will have greater access to local services which will help tackle homelessness as their communities recovers from the impacts of the pandemic.

“Communities up and down the Sunshine Coast are doing incredible work to support some of our most vulnerable members,” said Simons, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast. “I’m pleased to say that work will continue and expand with these supports, and am so grateful to the people on the front line providing assistance and support to fellow community members.”

The Town of Gibsons is receiving $190,000 to hire a community homelessness coordinator, launch a de-stigmatization and resilience program, and fund a temporary outreach support worker. The City of Powell River, in partnership with the qathet Regional District and Tla’amin First Nation, is receiving $772,199 to expand and enhance services, programs and support systems for people. The District of Sechelt is receiving $209,500 for the Sechelt Acts on Homelessness! Program.

MLA Simons says this investment is part of the Strengthening Communities Program which is providing support to 48 communities across B.C. Over $76 million will support local governments to combat the impacts of homelessness and keep their communities safe and healthy as they recover from the pandemic.

John Horgan and the BC New Democrat government is providing the support people need to build a recovery that leaves no one behind.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/25133