Province of British Columbia moves to secure space for vulnerable people to self-isolate

The British Columbia Government has outlined its plan to help out some of the most vulnerable residents across the province to find a place to self-isolate and reduce the spread of COVID1-19.

Since the provincial government began to tackle the issue they have secured more than 900 spaces at 23 sites including hotels, motels and community centres throughout the province.

“These new spaces are a critical part of how we can support those who are vulnerable in our community, including those who are experiencing homelessness or living in communal locations where the virus could spread more quickly. In partnership with health authorities and local government, these new spaces are helping us mitigate the effect of this virus and support our health-care system in communities across the province.” -- Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

As well the province made note as to how hotel and motel operators across the province have also provided space for those being discharged from hospital but need ongoing health care, something which frees up hospital beds for the COVID response.

"In addition, some hotels are reserved specifically for people who have COVID-19 and need a place to self-isolate while they recover. Other spaces are for patients being discharged from hospitals who do not have COVID-19 and who do not need emergency care, but still require ongoing health care – freeing up much needed beds in hospitals.  

Health authorities are identifying those who require self-isolation and working with BC Housing to refer people to hotel rooms or community centres. Some of these facilities are already operational, while the others are expected to be ready in the coming days and weeks. 

In addition to the more than 900 spaces secured to date, more rooms have been identified in communities throughout the province to be able to expand capacity if a need is identified by health authorities."

The full statement from the Province can be reviewed here.

Locally, work continues among a group of stakeholders towards trying to resolve issues related to the Prince Rupert Homeless Shelter on Third Avenue West, which does not have the required space to allow for the physical distancing required for all of its clients.

The homeless shelter issue has also been one of a number of items of friction between Prince Rupert City Council and Province of late.

Last week, MLA Jennifer Rice relayed that the City had issued a notice of closure for the homeless centre location, a curious decision it would seem in the  middle of a health pandemic.

At the time we had sought out some clarification on that closure order from the City of Prince Rupert, but as of yet have not received a reply to that enquiry.

To date, the City has also not made note of the homeless shelter issues through any of its many communication options; nor has the Mayor observed on the situation through his own political  portal.

In light of today's announcement from the Province, we have also reached out to MLA Jennifer Rice today for an update on the local issues and towards how, or if the new provincial program will be implemented in Prince Rupert.

For mote notes on housing issues in the region see our archive page here.

Further items of interest from the provincial scene can be explored from our Legislature archive, while municipal themes can be explored by way of our Council Discussion archive.