Nelson, B.C. - The City of Nelson has proclaimed October 16 to 22 Homelessness Awareness Week. While the number of people who are visibly homeless is growing around the province, so is the number of people who are 'hidden homeless' - people with temporary shelter but not a home, such as those who sleep on friends' sofas or in vehicles. An even greater number of people are at serious risk of becoming homeless because their housing is not affordable.

Several community events are being held to increase the understanding and awareness of homelessness.Yesterday The Salvation Army hosted the grand opening of a new laundry and shower facility.

Recent research tells us that Nelson has proportionately more renters paying more than 50% of their income on shelter than any other regional centre in B.C. Homelessness and affordable housing are very real issues in Nelson.