Jo Swann, Author at Vancouver Council of Women

February 2024 Seniors, Housing and Safety Report

By Sheila Pepper, Seniors, Housing and Safety Convenor

Our BC government is promising many more social housing builds of various forms in most parts of this province, but many are slow to be approved and funded, as so many other financial pressures are put on the province’s funds every month. Research shows that these promises are for future years, when so many need housing now, particularly our chronically homeless, new refugees, immigrants who have been waiting for weeks or months, as have asylum-seekers, all urgently needing accommodation. Others who must change residences are finding huge increases in costs of housing in all sizes of homes, due to the current lack of supply.

We heard from the CBC and at last month’s meeting, from Alison Silgardo, of the Seniors’ Services Society of BC, that there has been an increase of seniors over 60 who are homeless, and thus are less able to stay well and be safe in winter in particular. Many seniors are finding they must move to smaller homes for mobility and financial reasons, and they are finding many challenges in doing so. Hopefully, some other solutions can accommodate them, such as: house

sharing, co-operative combinations, laneway approvals for small homes. Many seniors are feeling more vulnerable to infections, and hospitals and most health care clinics are struggling to

help those who need their services. As we have experienced colder and severe weather conditions all over BC this January, many communities are struggling to keep roads, paths and highways clear of snow and flooding, and providing more warming shelters overnight, in churches and other community buildings.

Safety is always a concern for us all. It seems there are more ways to entice money from particularly vulnerable people. We see so many more ads recently for gaming and gambling, and more pressure put on everyone to join. Years ago, in Ottawa, we put pressure on our governments to stop gaming companies from putting gambling opportunities in retirement homes, resulting in peer pressure to increase participation. Gaming companies offered incentives to the owners, and many of these companies tried to increase gambling in many places, both online and at local stores. We must be more vigilant and learn all the new ways predators are trying to prey on vulnerable people.

November 2023 Arts and Letters Report

By Gwen Smith, Arts and Letters Convenor

As all musical and stage theatres and concerts are back in full swing I hope you will be taking advantage of the many opportunities in Metro Vancouver.

One exciting item to report is Bramwell Tovey’s opera “The Inventor”, a digital album release. Bramwell Tovey is a former conductor of the VSO. The opera was recorded at the Orpheum in 2012. It is available now streaming on Spotify and will soon be released in hard copy.

The Vancouver Art Gallery features art works produced in this region. At this time there is a special showing of Emily Carr,”A Room of her Own”, plus many other artists and exhibits. You can view the galleries and then have lunch in the gallery cafe.

Broadway shows are back with a wide variety of offerings. “Hadestown” is playing from November 7 to 12. Elf the Musical is playing from November 2 to December 31, and is a great Christmas show for the family.

The Arts Club, Metro Theatre and Richmond Gatewayare all offering a variety of plays. You can keep abreast of all concerts, plays and performers online or in the newspapers on Thursdays.

Go out and enjoy all the area has to offer!

November 2023 Seniors, Housing and Safety Report

By Sheila Pepper, Seniors, Housing and Safety Convenor

My three issues, seniors, safety, and housing, are continually in the national, provincial, territorial and local news almost every week.

Housing, of course, is an urgent problem for most people these days, whether they own their own homes and are struggling to pay higher taxes, repair and modify as they age, or make major renovations.

Others who rent are paying more each year, or ‘extra’ fees for services which were included previously, and many with necessary repairs and upgrades to appliances and infrastructure are not completed in a timely way.

Landlords are squeezed in several ways too, with higher costs of materials, but ‘renovictions’ are on the rise.

Those who are homeless and must live in shelters or other temporary accommodation experience many other difficulties, such as crowded facilities, mandatory enter and leave times, and safety of their possessions and pets (if they are allowed). Many immigrants and refugees experience additional threats.

Safety is often a problem as people move on streets, in the evenings, on public transportation and when travelling distances. Seniors have experienced all these problems and more and are less able to recover.

November 2023 Civic Affairs Report

By Bernie Florido, Civic Affairs Convenor

Vancouver:

Additional VPD officers have been called out for expected gatherings and protests because of the Middle East conflict, with a protests occurring in Vancouver. The VPD aims to ensure events and demonstrations remain peaceful. Mayor Sim voiced his opposition to hate speech and supported police investigations into such incidents.

Burnaby:

In September home prices in Burnaby decreased slightly compared to August, especially for single-family houses in some areas. The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver reported more sales of detached homes in Burnaby but fewer sales of attached properties and apartments. Overall, 257 homes were sold in Burnaby in September, with more listings than in August. In the larger Metro Vancouver area September sales increased compared to the previous year, but they were still below the typical average for that month. The number of homes listed for sale in Greater Vancouver in September 2023 went up significantly compared to the previous year.

Coquitlam:

A deeply devastating event resulted in the approval of two criminal charges of first degree murder and attempted murder against Nicholas Bellemare, a 25 year old male, in the death of RCMP Constable Rick O’Brien. This event occurred during the execution of a search warrant in Coquitlam. This is an immense loss that has deeply affected both the RCMP and communities across the country. Constable Rick O’Brien had dedicated seven years to the RCMP and leaves behind a wife and six children.

October 2023 Housing and Safety Report

By Sheila Pepper, Housing and Safety Convenor

We are pleased to see initiatives for upgrading, repairing and building new affordable, supportive housing in the Greater Vancouver area. The various city and provincial government departments are better coordinated and committed to solving this urgent problem.

So many more migrants, immigrants, foreign students and homeless people need accommodation in the areas around Vancouver. Monthly rental prices for even smaller apartments and condos have risen dramatically over the last five years in particular, and in the last three decades in general. Many laneway small homes have had City approvals, finally, and many more need to be built in our densely populated downtowns.

Foreign students come to our cities for the fall to spring education institution years in particular, and their situation is critical, as is the situation for the many newly homeless families, youth and singles coming to our area every year. We have been pleased to see so many churches committed to social housing on their attached parking lots and lands. Hopefully, the various city and provincial authorities in charge will improve and streamline the approval processes for building new accommodation for these groups; they have promised to do so.

Safety has always been a concern for us all, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women, children, youth and seniors. Many of us are well aware of the various risks and can prepare ourselves and our families for most of them. When on our streets and in public transportation, we can protect our belongings and our bodies with careful planning and preparation. Courses are available, in person at community centre and educational institutions and online.

Seniors are now more aware of concerns for their health, housing situations, community connections and safety than in decades past. For example, we used to hitchhike with confidence when we were young, but that changed dramatically in the 1970’s and since. Many aspects of seniors’ lives have changed in recent decades and we are more aware of the urgency in cases of our health, fitness, continuing education and training in many aspects of survival than our parents seemed to be concerned with.

October 2023 Child and Family Report

By Valerie Hutton, Child and Family Convenor

In September’s newsletter I described the Foundry program in BC. The issues that Foundry supports are broad and comprehensive and are all pressing issues for most people, let alone youth. Here is an outline of these issues that are supported.

Mental health supports – Our mental health is an important part of our overall health and it can change from day to day. We must look after our mental health just like we do with our physical health. Here youth will find information, self-checks, tips, apps and tools, resources and stories from other young people to help them.

Substance use – Everyone has their own relationship with substance use and has their reasons for using them. People have used substances for thousands of years. Substance use can be part of a healthy, rewarding life; however, using any substances also comes with risks and things to consider. This area of support has information about alcohol, cannabis, opioids, tobacco, nicotine products and other substances. It can help youth understand how to manage use, learn how to reduce possible harms, and empower them to make decisions that are right for them.

Tough topics – Life has its ups and downs, but sometimes we can experience really difficult things. Foundry addresses and supports the topics below by giving information, tips, apps and tools and where youth can get support when dealing with these tough times. These include:

loss and grief;
bullying;
self-injury;
suicide; and
violence and abuse.

Life, school and work -There are some skills in life that everyone needs. Managing money, finding housing and work are just a few of these things. Youth can learn more about these life skills at Foundry:

active living;
housing;
eating and nutrition;
mindfulness;
managing money;
on-line safety;
relationships;
school;
sexual wellness, and
work.

Why are youth supports like those provided by Foundry Important?

Supporting youth with issues such as loss and grief, bullying, suicide, substance use, violence, and abuse is crucial for the well-being and future of our community. By addressing these challenges, we create a nurturing environment that promotes resilience, mental health, and positive development. When we provide support to young individuals facing loss and grief, we help them navigate through difficult emotions and build coping mechanisms that can benefit them throughout their lives. By tackling issues like bullying, suicide, substance use, violence, and abuse, we foster a safe and inclusive community where young people can thrive. Empowering our youth with resources, counseling, and guidance ensures that they have the necessary tools to overcome adversity, contribute meaningfully to society, and shape a brighter future for themselves and our entire community.

How Can you Help Support the Important work that Foundry Does?

There are a lot of ways you can help Foundry support the health and well-being of BC’s young people.

Help Promote

Spread the word about Foundry to your friends, family and colleagues through word of mouth and on your social platforms!

https://foundrybc.ca/help-promote-foundry/

Support

Donate today to ensure young people in BC thrive.

https://foundrybc.ca/donate/

Volunteer

Contact your local Foundry office for current openings for volunteering.

Sign Up for the Foundry Newsletter

You will stay up to date with all the progress we are making for young people and their families across the province.

https://foundrybc.ca/newsletter-signup/

For more information visit:

www.foundrybc.ca

Related Foundry article link:

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023MMHA0020-000506

Check out these other programs and services that have come across my desk that support children and youth:

More Kindergartners and Families will Benefit from Pilot Expansion

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023ECC0032-000734

Newly Named SAJE Supports Offer Youth in Care a Stronger Path to Adulthood

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023CFD0007-000840

Extra School Playground Funds Mean More Fun for More Kids, Families

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023ECC0029-000721

New Funding Improves Children’s Care at Canuck Place

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HLTH0077-000869

September 2023 Citizenship and Immigration Report

By Victoria Shelkovnikova, Citizenship and Immigration Convenor

This information about the population of Canada has details available at this link:

Canadian Provinces by Population 2023

Province	2022 Population	2016 Population	2011 Population	Growth Rate
Ontario	15,262,660	13,448,494	12,851,821	2.13%
Quebec	8,751,352	8,164,361	7,903,000	1.16%
British Columbia	5,368,266	4,648,055	4,400,057	2.43%
Alberta	4,601,314	4,067,175	3,645,257	2.08%
Manitoba	1,420,228	1,278,365	1,208,268	1.77%
Saskatchewan	1,205,119	1,098,352	1,053,960	1.56%
Nova Scotia	1,030,953	923,598	921,727	1.85%
New Brunswick	820,786	747,101	751,171	1.58%
Newfoundland	528,818	519,716	514,536	0.29%
Prince Edward Island	172,707	142,907	140,204	3.21%
Northwest Territory	45,602	41,786	41,462	1.47%
Yukon	43,964	35,874	33,897	3.45%
Nunavut	40,586	35,944	31,906	2.04%

September 2023 Child and Family Report

By Valerie Hutton, Child and Family Convenor

A number of news articles and information affecting children, youth and families drew my attention in recent months. For this report, I focus on one in particular, as I feel it has the potential to impact youth and their families all across the province, and certainly in Vancouver and the lower mainland in the broadest sense.

The Foundry program in BC is a groundbreaking initiative that plays a crucial role in supporting youth across the province. As a comprehensive network of integrated youth service centers, Foundry provides a wide range of essential services and resources to young individuals between the ages of 12 and 24.

By addressing the unique challenges faced by youth, such as mental health issues, substance abuse, and social isolation, Foundry aims to ensure their overall well-being and empower them to thrive in all aspects of life.

Through its innovative and inclusive approach, the Foundry program has become a beacon of hope for young people, offering a safe and supportive environment where they can access the necessary care, guidance, and opportunities for a brighter future.

Foundry’s mission is to support young people in living a good life. This mission was co-created by a diverse group of youth, families, caregivers, staff and service providers. The phrase “living a good life” was inspired by First Nations and Métis youth who participated in a Talking Circle with Foundry, and it acknowledges the diverse nature, experiences and perspectives of health and wellness.

At the very core of the service is that young people should have a voice in their care and that finding the right support shouldn’t be difficult.

Foundry’s integrated services make it possible for young people to access five core services in one convenient location: mental health care, substance use services, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer supports, and social services.

Young people can access the integrated services by walking into one of the 16 local Foundry centres, exploring the online tools and resources at foundrybc.ca, or by connecting virtually through the free Foundry BC app.

Foundry also represents community agencies, government, donors, youth and young adults, and families coming together to improve the wellness of BC’s young people. This network is made up of community-based health and social service centres and online tools and resources for young people and their families. Foundry has engaged over 140 partners across BC. Foundry Central Office, hosted by Providence Health Care, leads the provincial initiative and supports the development of local centres. Each Foundry centre is operated by a lead agency that brings together local partners, service providers, young people and caregivers. Foundry’s online platform, foundrybc.ca, is powered by BC Children’s Hospital.

Together, these partners provide safe, non-judgmental care, information and resources, and work to reach young people earlier – before health challenges become problematic. Foundry brings health and social services together in a single place to make it easier for young people to find the care, connection and support they need.

Foundry is committed to working with their partners to change lives, communities and our systems, because young people are our future.

Next month I will provide more information and links for other children, youth and family news about programs and supports that you might find of interest.

September 2023 Civic Affairs Report

By Bernie Florido, Civic Affairs Convenor

Surrey

BC has instructed the City of Surrey to move forward with the Surrey Police Service. This decision comes in response to Surrey’s inability to prove that going back to the RCMP would be safe and wouldn’t drain officers from other regions. To help transition, BC has allocated $150 million and has designated Jessica McDonald as a strategic implementation advisor.

BC Wildfires

Wildfires in BC have caused severe property damage and displacements, while available funding for wildfire risk reduction programs remains underutilized. Minister Ralston initially criticized local governments for this, but later clarified that some communities are actively engaged and funding is accessible. Enhancing wildfire protection for communities will be a key topic at the upcoming UBCM convention with proposals for increased prevention spending and automatic funding distribution. However, experts argue that current funding levels are insufficient for meaningful progress in wildfire resilience, a viewpoint supported by wildfire ecologist Robert Gray.

Port Moody

Port Moody experienced stagnant population growth from 2016 to 2021 caused by an anti-development council. Mayor Meghan Lahti acknowledges that their previous resistance to development attracted unwelcome attention from the provincial government. Port Moody holds potential for growth especially around SkyTrain stations. However, disputes over projects like a proposed seniors housing tower highlight the tension between development and preserving the neighbourhood character. Port Moody seeks a delicate balance with several major developments in progress, but the challenge lies in finding the right harmony between growth and addressing community concerns.

September 2023 Health Report

By Kerry Gibson, Health Convenor

With the cabinet shuffle in the federal government came a new Minister of Health, Mark Holland. Other than a brief stint at the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Minister Holland is a career politician with no significant experience in health care. However, he is seen by recently consulted ministerial colleagues as ambitious, less risk-adverse than his predecessors, and a bit of a bulldog which could potentially be beneficial in setting Canada’s health care system back on track…at least until the next election cycle.

Babylon/Telus, Amwell, and Teledoc (Canada’s top three virtual care providers) continue to lay off employees and show significant losses in the past year as their limited technological offerings fail to live up to quality-of-care standards. The tech companies that do seem to be growing favourably are the ones that offer peripheral products/services to support telemedicine such as system management software, medical personnel agencies, and translation services. However, between venture capital investment flatlining and internal technological capabilities failing to meet compliancy and quality, these start-ups will not have the necessary market or funding to succeed without intervention or a shift in economic climates.

PEI just announced free tuition for licensed practical nursing, paramedicine, and resident care worker students with a two-year return-of-service agreement. BC does offer limited paid employer-sponsored health care assistant/support worker training with no prior experience in the field, but the program has not expanded to include advanced levels of medical training, which does not address the shortfall in medical professionals.

MAID (Medical Assistance in Dying) continues to be a topic in the press as health care and social work professionals are being called out for recommending the program to veterans and persons with disabilities as a “viable option” to resolving care and pain concerns. Registration into the program of persons with disabilities has been alarmingly high, as people have lost hope in any quality of life without the care they require. Young mother and quadriplegic/diabetic Rose Finlay registered for the program in protest to being informed that her care support application would take eight months to be assessed. Her struggles have received national attention, with no results other than qualifying to end her life in record time instead of receiving medical support for a set-back in her health. Prior to her current health crisis, Rose lived independently and without financial support, running her own company. With care, she would be able to return to the quality of life she previously enjoyed.