National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

As of June 1, minimum wage workers in the province earn $14.60 an hour, up from $13.85. But low wages, part-time or precarious work, coupled with low vacancy rates and high rents, are significant drivers of homelessness in the North Island region, said Kristi Schwanicke, co-ordinator of the Campbell River and District Coalition to End Homelessness.