The National explores the complicated and difficult issue of homelessness in Victoria, BC. In recent years, the postcard image of this quaint seaside capital has been tarnished by increasing homelessness. Victoria's solution? To turn to Portland, Oregon for inspiration. Also a small city, Portland has set an ambitious target to end homelessness by 2015. Their mantra is "housing first." No matter how people wind up on the streets — drug addiction, mental illness, crime or bad luck — they get a home first. Then a city-wide web of support workers help them find solutions for any other issues. With 1500 chronically homeless placed in permanent housing in three years, clearly Portland is doing something right. Now, the city of Victoria, BC is trying to learn and apply Portland's comprehensive and collaborative approach.