2023 Well-being Insights: Voices of West Kootenay Service Users and Service Providers

Bridging Rural Homelessness and Well-being

This report presents the results of research conducted in the summer of 2023 in three communities – Trail, Castlegar, and Nelson – in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia. The report offers insights into the conditions and challenges faced by the unhoused population (service users) and related service agencies (service providers) during that time period. Interviews were conducted with 26 service users and 18 service providers across the study area. The report highlights how, during the data collection period from July 24 to October 16, 2023, multiple crises were impacting both service users and service providers, including the housing crisis, a toxic supply of illicit drugs, and extreme weather conditions. 

Publication Date: 
2024