During the 2021 heatwave in British Columbia, Stephen Nelson experienced the deadly impact of soaring temperatures. Living at the Keefer Rooms in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, Nelson recounted the heat-related struggles of his neighbor, Mario. Nelson and his girlfriend tried to assist Mario by cooling his room with open windows and a fan, providing water, and monitoring his well-being. Tragically, Mario passed away during the heatwave due to the extreme temperatures exacerbating his pre-existing health issues.
The Keefer Rooms, an SRO building in Vancouver, lacks proper cooling infrastructure, making it vulnerable during heatwaves. A report by the B.C. Coroners Service revealed that 10% of the 619 heat-related deaths during the crisis occurred in social housing, including SROs. In response to the crisis, SRO tenants united to monitor temperatures, establish cooling rooms, and ensure safety measures during extreme heat events.
Wendy Pedersen, founder of the Downtown Eastside SRO Collaborative Society, spearheaded efforts to improve conditions for tenants. Teams of tenants, including “H2O teams,” now monitor and support neighbors during heatwaves by delivering water and checking on their well-being. The collaborative has successfully opened cooling rooms and secured funding for additional facilities in SRO buildings.
Despite challenges, SRO buildings play a crucial role in providing affordable housing for vulnerable populations. Efforts to enhance cooling options, such as heat pumps and communal spaces, have significantly improved safety and community resilience during extreme heat. Funding initiatives from various levels of government aim to address the unique housing needs of SRO tenants and ensure their well-being during climate-related challenges.