Morgan Xiao
Tag(s): Social Issues
Homelessness in Vancouver is a huge issue that has yet been solved. Ever since 2024, over 2000 people have been recognized as homeless. Homelessness was not an issue for Vancouver until the 1980s. Prior to 1980, the increase in property value due to an economic shift affected many citizens negatively. The decline of industries also increased the unemployment among the working class. After the 1980s, homelessness has been more visible in Vancouver than ever since. Due to the shift from resource-based to service-oriented industries, many were left unemployed, increasing the risk of homelessness. During this time, housing prices sky-rocketed due to an increase in population and demand, leading to higher rates of homelessness. Leading up to the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, there was increased public discourse about homelessness. It has cleaned up the Downtown Eastside, and efforts of cleanup of other areas beside it were made, huge initiatives that aim to add, beside the most vulnerable population’s available housing and resources, even if not the most effective or sustainable debate.