Dear Editor:
I am writing on behalf of the Burnaby Task Force On Homelessness.
The leading cause of homelessness is poverty. This is documented by national research and is regularly articulated by Burnaby residents living in poverty. Burnaby’s Social Sustainability report states “poverty is a serious issue confronting some residents of Burnaby, many of whom are increasingly challenged in accessing basic life necessities.” (2011 pg11)
The rental housing stock in Burnaby is diminishing, and much of the rental housing stock is old and coming to the end of its viability. The construction of new housing units prepares Burnaby for new residents, but low-income residents, who fear the loss of their housing, are concerned they may be unable to find safe, affordable housing within their home community of Burnaby.
The Burnaby Task Force On Homelessness is non-partisan and works with all to assist homeless Burnaby citizens.
We recognize the role/mandate of each level of government and urge each one to collaborate and utilize the full extent of their mandate to find creative solutions to ensure that all Burnaby citizens have safe and affordable housing.
Wanda Mulholland, community development coordinator
Burnaby Task Force On Homelessness
