Service gaps still persist as PG’s homeless count continues to grow

Over 54% of the Prince George’s homeless population is under the age of 45.

That’s according to the latest Point In Time Homeless Count that was conducted in November where the minimum number of people experiencing absolute homelessness increased to 206 – a notable increase from 133 in 2018 and 163 in 2021.

Spokesperson, Kerry Pateman says 75% of those who took the survey identified as Indigenous – the recent findings will now be issued to other Indigenous groups to help find some solutions.

“We are creating a separate set of results for those that self-identify as Indigenous and we will be working with other Indigenous organizations to look at what they want to do but they may wish to research further.”

“It (the Indigenous homeless rate) has always been between 69 and 80% in the counts Prince George has done. This is very significant and it points to more work in the community.”

In addition, 46% of people surveyed noted they first became homeless prior to the age of 25 – with youth or young adult homelessness a topic of concern.

Pateman added the younger population often shows the most hesitation when needing some assistance.

“They don’t really know where to access services or they are weary about accessing services especially when government requires registration and perhaps the family maybe informed and they might have ended up on the street due to family issues or family complex.”

The spike in the local homeless numbers also come during a time where more supportive housing options are available for people to get on their feet again. However, just because shelter is available, doesn’t mean it’s a slam dunk people will stay in those settings long term.

“To stay in managed housing is hard and the rules are there for the safety of everybody,” said Pateman.

The count was led by the Prince George Nechako Aboriginal Employment and Training Association along with other community partners.