In the past week, the City of Coquitlam has stepped up the practice of taking tents and belongings from unhoused residents. People have reported losing tents, generators, laptops, fire extinguishers, and other basic necessities.

Until recently, the City came on predictable days, so residents knew when they needed to be present to protect their tents. Over the past week, City crews have started coming at irregular, unannounced times. As a result, some of the most vulnerable young people are now sleeping outside with no tent at all.

Watch video of residents explaining the change in how the city treats their homes and belongings.

There is currently no winter mat program in Coquitlam. Many people have nowhere safe and warm to go. Gathering on Gordon Avenue gives them some safety in numbers from violent crime, including robbery and serious assaults.

Please send an email to the City of Coquitlam asking them to:

• Stop taking tents and personal belongings from unhoused people.

• Return tents and essential items that have been taken.

• Immediately provide a winter mat program so people are not forced to sleep outside in the cold.

• Work toward additional low-barrier shelter spaces in the Tri-Cities.

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