The controversial bylaw implemented to outlaw loitering and soliciting in Prince George is being criticized by Community Partners Addressing Homelessness (CPAH).
“We need to work together to find solutions to homelessness, such as appropriate housing with support. Fining folks who are already facing poverty and a lack of housing we don’t think is a solution,” said Kerry Pateman with CPAH.
The Safe Streets Bylaw is a measure that was passed by the City of Prince George to try and mitigate the complex issues of homelessness, the opioid crisis, and the rise in crime.
“A City of Prince George bylaw to stop panhandling and sitting on streets is not going to get rid of the criminal element,” said Pateman.
CPAH was not the only organization to be critical of the bylaw, the National Assembly of First Nations, Carrier Sekani Family Services, and Together We Stand have all voiced their concerns.
Pateman said the pandemic caused many organizations that help homeless people to close.
She added that while the upcoming no barrier housing being built in PG will be helpful, she thinks the City should have put its resources towards organizations directly dealing with the social issue.
“Put some of these efforts into supporting community services that are doing the work on the streets to reach out to people, to build that relationship and move them into a more secure lifestyle.”
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