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Portions of Hastings Street, the main drag that cuts through this neighbourhood, were still packed this week with people unable to practise social-distancing as they ventured out to find their next fix, sell something to support their habit or line up for free food. Several blocks away, dozens of ramshackle tents are still crowded together in Oppenheimer Park.

Photo by Nick Procaylo

Observers say it is sheer luck that COVID-19 hasn’t blown through this vulnerable population and are preparing for that worst-case scenario.

“People who are on the street do not have the opportunity to self-isolate, to distance themselves socially, especially if they are living on the street or in a camp. They also don’t have a washroom, they don’t have a place to wash their hands, they don’t have a place to maintain that hygiene that is really necessary. They wear the same clothes,” said Jeremy Hunka of Union Gospel Mission, a longtime provider of shelter and food for the poor.

“There are so many challenges stacked against this population, this community, these people at this time that it is really unprecedented. We’ve never seen this before.”

But big changes are being made to try to help. Citizens are donating masks. Businesses are providing money. And the provincial government, health authorities, city hall and non-profits are working together to offer potential solutions — though some advocates worry the pace may not be quick enough to get ahead of the fast-spreading coronavirus.