The Creston Public Library has been hosting a series of events and panel discussions focusing on the increasingly visible issue of homelessness and poverty in the Creston Valley.
The next discussion ‘When Homelessness Hits Close to Home’ will be presented on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at the Library Meeting Room at 1 p.m.
Previous sessions covered subjects such as Social Determinants of Health and Risk Factors for Homelessness, Seniors and Poverty, and the Housing Crisis Across Canada.
The June 13 session will focus on Harm Reduction and how it can be used as a strategy and a mindset in addressing in addressing challenges that poverty and homelessness create for individuals and communities.
Speakers Jared Basil (Ktunaxa Nation – Social Sector), Polly Sutherland (ANKORS East Kootenay) and Renee Bailey (EKASS) will discuss harm reduction and how it helps; and how it can be applied in supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, substance abuse disorders and other challenges associated with poverty and basic needs insecurity.
Discussion and audience questions will follow the presentations.
You can attend the sessions in person or by Zoom. Email programs@crestonlibrary.com for the link.
Contributors to the sessions are:
Creston Valley Den Society
Trinity United Church
Yaqan Nuki Peoples Heritage Society
Lower Kootenay Band Health Services
Ktunaxa Nation Social Sector
ANKORS East Kootenay
Creston Gleaners Food Bank
East Kootenay Addiction Services Society
Creston Valley Housing Society
Kootenai Community Centre Society
Ktunaxa Kinbasket Child & Family Services
Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors
Interior Health
Population and Public Health
You can read the full article on the Creston Valley Advance’s website.
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