Burnaby RCMP and Community Team Secure Housing for Long-Term Unhoused Senior

A 71-year-old man who spent the last fourteen years homeless has finally found shelter, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Burnaby RCMP and the City of Burnaby’s Intervention Support Team. On January 19, 2026, officials confirmed that the long-term resident of an encampment near the 3600-block of Kensington Avenue is now in temporary housing.

The journey to secure this housing began on December 9, 2025, when the Police Mental Health and Outreach Team (PMHOT) responded to a tip from Metro Vancouver Park Rangers. Officers visited the encampment and found the senior living in challenging conditions, surrounded by overgrown vegetation. Upon arrival, the man welcomed the officers and expressed his willingness to receive assistance, requesting some time to organize his belongings before relocating.

Following this initial contact, PMHOT partnered with the City of Burnaby’s Intervention Support Team to facilitate housing arrangements. As part of their ongoing support, PMHOT officers returned to the site early in 2026, providing the man with a warming kit that included essential cold-weather supplies and blankets while they worked on securing permanent housing.

The successful housing arrangement marks a significant achievement for both the Burnaby RCMP and the City of Burnaby. “This is the kind of outcome our Police Mental Health and Outreach Team is continually working towards alongside our partners,” said Community Programs Officer Inspector Amanda Harnett. She emphasized the meaningful impact that access to support can have on individuals’ lives.

The collaboration between the Burnaby RCMP and the City’s Intervention Support Team plays a crucial role in addressing homelessness in the area. Graham de la Gorgendiere, General Manager of Community Safety with the City of Burnaby, stated, “Our strong relationship with the Burnaby RCMP’s Police Mental Health and Outreach Team is an incredibly important component of the work we do to help unhoused individuals in our community.” Last year, the Intervention Support Team assisted over 200 individuals, providing numerous referrals to shelters and housing.

PMHOT is dedicated to addressing chronic social issues and works to maintain partnerships with local mental health and homelessness-related agencies. In 2025, the team conducted 197 outreach visits to support the city’s most vulnerable citizens. They ensure the safety of outreach workers and unhoused individuals, providing essential services that can lead to a more stable living situation.

The City of Burnaby’s Intervention Support Team employs a trauma-informed approach when addressing homelessness. Their services include connecting individuals with housing referrals, health services, mental health supports, and addiction treatment programs, as well as assistance with obtaining identification cards.

The successful transition of the 71-year-old man into temporary housing highlights the effectiveness of community collaboration in tackling homelessness and the significant role of local agencies in providing essential support to those in need.