In response to escalating concerns over human waste on Vancouver’s streets, the city has reinstated the “Poop Fairy” program, officially known as the Feces Pilot Program. This initiative, managed by the non-profit organization Mission Possible, deploys a two-person team to collect human feces and sanitize affected areas, primarily focusing on the Downtown Eastside and Chinatown. The program was initially launched in 2021, during which over 17,000 instances of human waste were removed from public spaces in the past year.

What the Program Includes

The Poop Fairy Program was initiated to address the volume of feces reported through the City’s VanConnect app and public calls to 311. The program involves a two-person response team that collects feces for disposal and sanitizes the affected areas using a disinfectant spray. In 2021, the program resulted in the removal of more than 17,670 instances of human waste from Vancouver’s streets. Collections are carried out on weekdays across Chinatown, Downtown, Strathcona, Gastown, and Hastings Crossing neighborhoods. The program was quoted as being “just too” slow,” and that the staggering cleanup stats provide little comfort

How It’s Happening

The resurgence of this program underscores the city’s ongoing struggle with public sanitation issues The downtown east side has a notably low number of public washrooms relative to its population density and needs. While the city operates 11 automated public toilets and two “comfort stations,” many residents report difficulty accessing these facilities, especially during evenings and weekends. This limited availability forces individuals, particularly those experiencing homelessness, to seek alternatives, often resulting in public defecation. While the Poop Fairy Program addresses immediate cleanup needs, city officials and community advocates emphasize the necessity for long-term solutions, such as expanding public restroom facilities and providing support for vulnerable populations.

How a 1st Trauma Scene Cleanup Can Help Protect Businesses from Human Waste

While the city’s program addresses public spaces, businesses often face challenges when human waste is found on their private property. Additionally, human waste has become a problem in an increasing number of neighborhoods across Vancouver. Some of which the Poop Fairy Program has yet to expand their services to. In such cases, 1st Trauma Scene Cleanup can offer more efficient and specialized services:

Rapid Response:

1st Trauma Scene Cleanup can provide quicker response times, ensuring that businesses can resume normal operations promptly. Unlike city programs that operate on set schedules and cover specific areas, 1st Trauma Scene Cleanup is available around the clock and can respond immediately to incidents, minimizing downtime and potential disruptions.

Specialized Cleaning:

1st Trauma Scene Cleanup has the expertise and equipment to handle biohazardous waste safely and thoroughly, reducing health risks. We use industrial-grade disinfectants and follow strict protocols to ensure that affected areas are not only cleaned but also sanitized to prevent the spread of diseases.

Cost-Effective:

By preventing potential health code violations and associated fines. 1st Trauma Scene Cleanup can save businesses money in the long run. Our services help maintain a clean and safe environment, which is essential for customer satisfaction and business reputation.

Peace of Mind:

Knowing that professionals are handling the cleanup allows business owners to focus on their operations without added stress. 1st Trauma Scene Cleanup offers a comprehensive range of services, including documentation and reporting, which can be useful for insurance claims and compliance purposes.

While the city of Vancouver’s efforts are commendable, businesses dealing with human waste issues will find that partnering with 1st Trauma Scene Cleanup offers a more efficient and effective solution. Keeping your business clean and sanitized from unnecessary waste. 

If you or your business is in need of around-the-clock cleanup and sanitation services for your private property. Contact the experts at 1st Trauma Scene Cleanup for fast, efficient, and reliable services. 

For more detailed information, you can read the full CTV News article here.