Quote:
Originally Posted by BodomReaper
Off topic but it's a good discussion - for what it's worth, West 4th does attract quite a few homeless people on the commercial strip between Cypress and Balsam. With access to 3 Frequent Transit Network corridors and downtown, Kitsilano is definitely central enough to justify hosting a shelter.
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There is lots of social housing throughout the west side and at least for a period in recent history there have been shelters in Kits. Some would surprise you, as they are just poor but well mannered seniors or young families for example. The thing you find on the west side is that there is more depth to neighborhoods as there had been more time to absorb and adjust over different generations, migration waves, and economies.
On a side note, any beggar with a regular spot they defend is usually least in need and in the system with long term housing, medical, and income assistance. The ones who collect tins for deposits usually have less but are happier. The ones who just wander and get into trouble are the most in need, but suffering from mental or substance problems.