(File photo: CFJC Today).

By Stephanie Swensrude

SOCIAL ISSUES

City to review and update Kamloops Social Plan

Jul 18, 2022 | 2:14 PM

KAMLOOPS — It will clarify the City’s role in addressing social issues like homelessness, childcare, substance use and climate justice — council is set to review and update the Kamloops Social Plan.

The document was last updated in 2009 and a report that will be presented to council Tuesday (July 19) will outline the process to renew the plan.

“Social movements, continued advocacy, collective efforts related to truth and reconciliation, gender and identity, and diversity and inclusion have led to progressive change and increased community awareness,” reads the report.

“However, existing crises related to homelessness and housing affordability have broadened in scope and impact, and new crises related to the toxic drug supply, mental health, and extreme climate events have emerged and placed significant pressures on the social infrastructure of communities.”

The report also says that the emptying of the public realm during the COVID-19 pandemic made social issues like mental health and homelessness more visible.

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Culturally appropriate food goes beyond the ingredients on a plate

8h ago

Two and Out

PETERS: Whether building up or tearing down, Kamloops is what you make it

Dec 13, 2024

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: How to reduce food waste in Kamloops during the festive season

Dec 13, 2024

“The increasing community focus on social issues that followed has led to a corresponding increased expectation of municipal involvement to address these issues,” says the report.

As part of the first phase of the project, the City aims to conduct a review of services in Kamloops to identify gaps in care for people requiring health and social services.

This is after Councillor Bill Sarai requested a review at a council meeting on June 14, 2022. A similar review was conducted in Penticton and found that “improved access to mental health and treatment/recovery programs were identified as a key need.”

The City will also use data like the 2021 Census and engagement with stakeholders to “apply evidence-based solutions to social issues affecting community”.

The City aims to have a draft plan by the middle of next year.