BEYOND THE NOISE

Housing and homelessness are among the most urgent challenges of our time, yet public conversations are often shaped by misconceptions, oversimplified narratives, and polarized debates. Beyond the Noise is an event series designed to cut through rhetoric and explore real solutions, bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, and community members to engage in meaningful dialogue. Join us for our first session of the series which features two in-depth panel discussions that unpack the realities of supportive housing and the role of media in shaping public understanding of the housing crisis. Panel 1: Supportive Housing—Myths, Realities, and the Path Forward Moderated by Carolina Ibarra, CEO, Pacifica Housing Supportive housing is a proven solution to homelessness, yet misconceptions and community resistance often stand in the way of its success. What makes this model different from clinical approaches? How does it address both the immediate and long-term needs of individuals facing chronic homelessness? And what challenges must be overcome to ensure its effectiveness? Members of the BC Coalition for Safe and Sustainable Supportive Housing (SaSSH) from across British Columbia join this panel to unpack the realities of supportive housing. They will highlight successes, confront the limitations of the current system, and explore ways to strengthen community trust and collaboration. From addressing concerns around public disorder to ensuring equitable distribution of housing and services, this discussion will go beyond the noise to examine what it truly takes to create lasting change. Panelists: (find panelist bios in tab above) AVERY TAYLOR, Director of Victoria Operations, PHS Community Services Society BOB HUGHES, Executive Director, ASK Wellness Society KIM MARKEL, Executive Director, Lift Community Services TAMMY JANZEN, Executive Director, Quesnel Shelter & Support Society Panel 2: Framing the Crisis-- Media, Ethics and the Housing Conversation Moderated by Carolina Ibarra, CEO, Pacifica Housing Journalists play a crucial role in shaping public understanding of housing and homelessness, but reporting on these complex issues comes with ethical challenges. How can the media balance compelling storytelling in these politically divisive times while respecting the dignity of those affected? How do they navigate limited access to information from governments and housing providers, especially in an era of declining public trust? How must Housing providers navigate this environment? This panel brings together leading journalists and a non-profit CEO to explore the responsibilities and challenges of reporting on the housing crisis. They will discuss the fine line between advocacy and objectivity, the impact of media narratives on policy and public perception, and how to foster more transparent and constructive dialogue between the media, policymakers, and housing providers. Panelists: (find panelist bios in tab above) FRANCES BULA, Journalist GREGOR CRAIGIE, Author and Journalist MICHAEL JOHN LO, Journalist MICHEAL VONN, Chief Executive Officer, PHS Community Services Society ROB SHAW, Journalist