For years Smithers has been dealing with an increasing homelessness and poverty crisis. Earlier this year, through the Smithers Homeless Count, 77 people, up from 57 in 2023, were identified to be experiencing some level of homelessness in the community, either couch-surfing, sleeping outdoors or in temporary units. BV Harm Reduction received funding in October for a temporary winter shelter with 8 beds at the old Fabrications budling at Third Ave. and Queen Street, which opened its doors in November and was full within the first day. Clearly there is a need for these supports, which no one is denying, however property owners of the adjacent buildings have some reservations about the lack of communication and consultation with the community before the shelter was approved. However, not everyone is happy about it.