More coordination, oversight, and accountability are needed to improve the poor living conditions in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, according to a study done by the city’s police. .“It’s clear the system needs to be fixed,” said Vancouver Police Chief Adam Palmer in a Wednesday press release. .“Despite more talk than ever, and more money than ever, life is now bleaker than ever for a growing number of people in places like the Downtown Eastside.”.Palmer said despite all the money being spent, communities need more help. .The study said $5 billion is directed to Vancouver’s social safety net. This is equivalent to $14 million per day. .About $1.5 billion is directed towards non-profits with a direct mandate to address social issues. Close to $1 million per day is spent on community and social issues in the Downtown Eastside. .The study said despite billions being spent, many people believe the health and safety crisis is worsening. .There were 527 overdose deaths in Vancouver in 2021, up 115% from two years prior. With 58 overdose deaths for every 100,000 people, Vancouver had a higher per capita rate than Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles. .A resident in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside is 32.3 times more likely to live with depression and seven times more likely to suffer from schizophrenia. There is inadequate funding for addiction recovery, criminal rehabilitation services, and proactive programs to assist victims of crime, notes the study..Vancouver police shared the report with dozens of community groups and continues to seek input on the findings. It's recommended establishing a steering committee made up of community partners and various levels of government and creating a centralized entity to oversee and coordinate services in the Downtown Eastside. .While the study marks the start of an important conversation, Palmer said he knows “there is a long road ahead and we all need to do better.”.“Our vulnerable communities deserve it, and the public expects it,” he said. .The report comes after prominent Canadian political commentator Aaron Gunn unveiled the third season of his hit show Politics Explained on Oct. 5, with the first episode called Vancouver Is Dying drawing more than two million views. .READ MORE: Gunn launches next season of YouTube series.Vancouver is Dying examines how violent crime, homelessness, and drug addiction are impacting the city. Gunn said it was “the most challenging episode this season.” .He spoke with recovered drug addicts, former police officers, the police union head, crime analysts, and addictions treatment specialists. One part of the episode saw him walk through the Downtown Eastside.
