Homelessness on the Rise in Several Okanagan and Shuswap Communities
A recent snapshot of homelessness across British Columbia reveals a concerning trend: the unhoused population is increasing in more than half of the surveyed communities. According to B.C. Housing's 2025 homeless count, 12 out of 20 municipalities saw a rise in homelessness when numbers were tallied on a single day in April. This includes areas within the Okanagan and Shuswap regions.
Penticton's Increasing Homeless Population
Penticton experienced a notable increase in its homeless population. "We have an issue in Penticton, but it's the same issue that we're seeing across B.C.," stated Penticton Councillor Julius Bloomfield, according to Global News.
Between 2023 and 2025, Penticton's homelessness numbers rose by 17 percent. Looking at a longer timeframe, from 2018 to 2025, the increase is even more significant, reaching 80 percent.
Regional Variations: Vernon and Salmon Arm
The situation varies across the region. While Penticton and other communities grapple with rising numbers, Vernon saw a decrease of 30 percent in its unhoused population since 2023. In contrast, Salmon Arm experienced an increase of 22 percent during the same period.
Addressing the Crisis: Local and Provincial Responses
Councillor Bloomfield highlighted efforts to address the issue in Penticton. "We have approved the development of two sites, city-owned sites for affordable housing and supportive housing," he said. "That will obviously help with the mix, but we continue to advocate to the province and work with the province with the Minister of Housing and B.C. Housing for providing some more options."
Housing Minister Christine Boyle acknowledged the complex factors contributing to homelessness. "In many communities, it’s compounded by the toxic drug crisis, by residual impact of the pandemic," she said.
The province is actively working to reduce homelessness numbers, according to Boyle. "The ‘Belonging in B.C.’ plan will add 3,900 new supportive housing units, 240 complex care spaces province-wide, building on the more than 9,000 supportive homes that are already open or underway since 2017," she explained. It is hoped this action plan will provide assistance for communities like Penticton.
Homelessness as a Top Priority
For Penticton, addressing homelessness is paramount. "It's top priority," Bloomfield stated. "Top priority because it affects everything."
Read the full report here.
