Advocate says homeless numbers escalating in Fraser Valley as cost of living increases
CTV
An advocate for the homeless in the Fraser Valley says he’s never seen the situation as dire as it currently is and adds that it’s time for people to work together to find solutions.
A narrow, muddy path through the bush leads to one of about a dozen homeless camps in Mission.
It is here that Shawna has been living for more than a year.
“It’s tucked in and no one kind of does bug us,” she explained.
Now 24, she says she began using drugs at 13.
When her addiction to methamphetamine spiralled out of control, she ended up on the streets.
Advocates say the number of homeless, both those who are hidden and those in plain view, is growing.
“The level of just despair and people outside, it’s just off the charts,” said Ward Draper of The 5 and 2 Ministries.
