Homeless encampment in Salt Spring Island forced to dismantle for fifth time

CHEK News
Salt Spring Warming Collective, a group of locals experiencing homelessness on the island, have been forced to dismantle and move their tents several times over the winter.

One of the most vulnerable groups in the Capital Region continues to struggle to find a permanent place to live.

Salt Spring Warming Collective, a group of locals experiencing homelessness on the island, have been forced to dismantle and move their tents several times over the winter.

After complaints from the local community, they are facing yet another eviction.

Police and Capital Regional District staff spent their Wednesday taking down and packing up tents, posters and other belongings of the group.

This is now their fifth encampment that has been terminated since launching their independent group on Christmas Day.

“It is traumatic to be displaced. We have people who’ve been multiply displaced many times,” said Kajin Goh, a member of the Salt Spring Warming Collective.

“We want to avoid that process as much as possible and just get to the negotiating table,” he continued.

They initially set up in Peace Park, then Mouat Park, a dog park, Centennial Park and finally in the pack of a community garden on Rainbow Road.

After the group received a notice of removal from the CRD this week, they refused to pack up, explaining that they aren’t bothering anyone and have no where else to go.

“I think it’s a safe and out-of-the-way place. And they need help. They really do,” Craig Hickson, a local supporter, said.

He and other members say their community means more to them that just a space to survive the unseasonably cold winter.

“It also helps us to connect and to share and to feel human. A lot of us are at the very bottom,” said group member Toto Ro Andre.

“Here, we get to heal together…This project has empowered us, given us a sense of ownership, but more importantly, belonging and acceptance,” he continued.

While some neighbours have shown support and donated to the group, others in the area have complained.

“What’s going on is public drinking, loud noise at night, disruption to neighbours,” said Gary Holman, the CRD Director for Salt Spring Island.

“Neighbours are concerned for their kids in and around the area. So, there’s got to be respect shown on both sides,” he continued.

He said the Salt Spring Warming Collective is self-appointed and should work with other agencies and apply for permits, which the group said it had, but were rejected.

“I do believe people have a right for affordable housing and senior governments needs to step in here and they have been on Salt Spring,” said Holman.

“We have made some great accomplishments, including securing 24/7 funding for the shelter and there are gaps, but there is no human right to have a place where you can party,” he added.

Goh said the group is currently trying to figure out where they can go next and hope to speak to the CRD soon to discuss possible solutions.

Tahmina AzizTahmina Aziz

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