Search Result

The objective of this document is to provide technical support and guidance for the implementation of an Alternative Emergency Response (AER) in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside neighbourhood (DTES). There is a well-established need for an alternative emergency response initiative in the DTES. Previous work and research activities conducted by the AER Working Group have offered extensive community-level data that explain the core principles of an AER initiative, which include: (1) Preventing and mitigating emergency scenarios by leveraging the community’s expertise and unique strengths, and providing capacity building support. (2) Addressing critical risks to the health, safety, and well-being of community members, especially those most vulnerable to the effects of inequity and gaps in services meant to address the worst symptoms of poverty. (3) Enhancing emergency preparedness within the community to address emerging risks, including climate change.