You know the people in Maui, HI are now living in a Cosco parking lot because they lost their home to the fire. Cosco brought in porta pottys. Shame on anybody who puts anybody down for having to live in your car..or van, or camper, or tent. Not everyone is a drug addict. Half of America is one pay check away from homelessness..
When I visited Maui in 09 I chatted with locals, always my goal when I travel, who told me about the high cost of living then. Over 50% need some kind of aid and I don't know how many were living out of their cars, on the beach or in tents. And they were employed. As a society we are waaay to quick to judge
@@VANCITYVANLIFEMy comment failed ..I was saying NOT ALL PEOPLE WHO LIVE THIS LIFESTYLE ARE HOMELESS AND DESTITUTE . In fact,MOST live 100X better ..than we who live month to month paying for a crappy apartment..My long term plan is to move into a van or a camper truck .Thank you for the info.greeting from The Lone Star State ........in the 30s today 💨
Are these conscious choice…did most of these people decide to live in their vans or is this strife……I’m unsure what I should be feeling as we don’t really have back stories…..just breakdown stories about cold…
From the USA. I love working on cars and other mechanical things. My dream one day is to own a non profit shop that can fix vehicles for people who live in their vehicles and might not be able to afford their repairs. No idea how I will be able to do it but Im gonna work hard to get there. It might take me 30 years but its a dream.
Bright blessings, May your dream come true. I have a camper van and hope to travel someday. For now, it’s weekend camping trips testing and retesting my setup.
The folks really running things behind the scenes don’t want us to get along and love one another.if we did we’d realize we need to get rid of them and the systems of oppression they’ve built around us.
Lived in Calgary when I was a kid and I am truly impressed that they can survive a winter in their vehicle, so thrilled that a community of people rally to help one another get by. Way to go
I lived in Santa Barbara, Cali in the 90s. They passed a law no overnight parking in residential areas. Why? Cause people living in vehicles of various kinds would park in front of someone’s house, throw their trash in their yard, and leave their big gulp pee cups and poop bags on the sidewalk. A few ruined it for the many.
Yes it happens but I have no problem letting them connect to electrical power for a few days 😊 We all can help the older people who can’t work anymore 😊
Dental care has not been provided for by the gov't. Supposedly they are starting some kind of program soon. We'll see. We end up paying lots for dental and vision care.
I’m a survivor of the dubbed campfire November 8,2018 it tore my beautiful little town of paradise to the ground. I’m very resilient at least that’s what I tell myself everyday flashbacks are fantastic I hear sirens I’m on high alert I see flames smell smoke I’m very timid and in fear of losing my life. P.T.S.D really sucks
Chrome, as a full time nomad myself living in a 2017 Subaru Outback, I really appreciate your sharing the story of the Calgary community. May they be an inspiration to anyone considering the possibility of living in a vehicle. Thank you. Walk in Beauty, Don
The truest definition of community. Everyone on equal footing. Everyone experiencing the same challenges. Everyone willing to look after each other and help when help is needed. Communities like this ARE the big society.
Those $3 emergency blankets really do work buy those. Put a blanket or 2 or sleeping bag over you tuck the emergency blanket around and slightly under you. You will be so warm in the coldest temperatures you will have to take some covers off. You can also glue those to the walls around your Van and it will reflect all the heat that your heaters are putting out back to you, they honestly will help a great deal.
What a beautiful person that guy Bruce is. Always happy to have a knock on the door to help out others, yet fixes his heating problem, at - 40 something degrees, on his own as he did not want to wake people up for help.
Thank you for sharing this community with us, Chrome and Bruce "Junior". Telling their stories hopefully helps sticks and bricks dwellers, or those who think of VanLifers as cast away people, that there is a community of people who not only enjoy their lifestyle but also prefer the lifestyle. In addition, they've become a closer family than many who live in neighborhoods where they don't even know their neighbor's name. Thank you both for opening people's eyes...
@john-danson3113 Odd how officialdom tends to screw up the concept. Seems they try too hard to gentrify what they would otherwise view as squatters. Rules, regulations and by-laws just get in the way of an organically grown community.
I am 70 and pretty active. I have my social security, own my home, and have a business. I have been homeless. It's beutal in Texas in the summer. Thank you for telling the truth about these folks.
Hearing the consistent message from everyone about caring for one another brought tears to my eyes. It's such a great reminder of what community can and should look like.
Beautiful! In the six and a half years living in my minivan I have encountered the most beautiful, most helpful people and most loving people. We are nomads!!
OMG, I just came across this video. I'm so deeply touched by this group. I live in an apartment inn Portland, OR and there is NO community to be found. Thank you for sharing. So heartwarming and it make me cry to what they have in midst of such hardship and those of us that have so much do not have community. Bless them!
This is, without a doubt, the very best video that you've ever made. Intelligent, sensitive, informative and interesting. Looking forward to more videos from you. Stay safe.
Could not have described the video and interviews better. I was moved by how supportive everyone is of each other during challenging times. If only the world was full of such loving and caring people. It’s priceless. We are steadily getting there, but still a way to go……..Thank you for an important reminder.
Love to Ruth from Australia, I came close to houseless living. I worked so hard to advocate for myself and other elders. Volunteering and cooking for homeless folk. I was gifted a beachfront apartment, subsidised rent for life. Australia is the lucky country, I got lucky. Widows like myself are seen as trash without an estate funded life.😢
It isn't going to get any easier for us in the youth camp. I'm in my 30s and trust me, life isn't easier either living paycheck to damn paycheck as a healthcare worker too
This video has a double effect on the viewer. On one hand makes one happy for ALL the ❤ & caring out there on the streets & on the other hand makes one sad. Life can be as brutal as the winter out there.
@susanwright1999 Bruce is the young guy in the beginning. Big Z(?spelling) Vanlife is the Asian gentleman in the minivan. Both have RUclips channels. Bruce's is growing fast.
I like to know of this location I may be houseless soon I might as well be there as well. I reside in Lethbridge and I'm disabled and living poor. So if anyone can pass on the exact location of this community that will be great. Thank u.
What a wonderful story,about real people forging a community that helps one another! I live in a neighborhood of Million $$$ homes in Carmel,Cal.....and ...almost nobody knows one another. This is so inspiring!
Calgary is so cold we had to plug our block heaters in at night during the winter. We did van life and trailer life there in the early 80's. If we didn't have friends in houses that would let us plug in we would not have survived. We also burned a fortune's worth of propane. In places where you don't have to move, bales of hay around the bottom of the vehicle helps. Thanks for this post, Chrome.
"Solitude" seems to be a privilege of the housed and wealthy. I know that when you've lost everything, "community" becomes an incredibly vital part of getting grounded again and finding your footing. I have so much love for these folks 🥰
@@cassiehartford8997 you're absolutely right. One hasn't lost everything if they have community. I find it so sad for humanity when society turns their backs on homeless people. Instead of offering judgement we need to offer understanding.
Their stories are so full of emotion, such a shame there isn't places they can park with some safety of walls or foliage against the brutal winds in the winter. Amazing community full of equally amazing people who really know what the word community means ... some people could learn a lot from them x I genuinely wish them all the very best and thanks Chrome for ensuring the truth be told and not twisted !! xxx
Hi Chrome, this is Cory from Ret.firefightercory. Sorry I missed you 😢 I’m so glad that I was able to meet you in person a few weeks ago thanks to the amazing loving community that I have been apart of. Thank you for sharing our community with everyone ❤❤ we are all here for each other no matter what we need or can do to be there for each other. Thanks again Chrome and Cruz much luv ❤❤
@Easystreet001 the last time the temp got down to -40C was in Nov 2006. In addition, diesel fuel gels in the cold temps, as does propane, so heaters cannot function.
I live in Edmonton , north of Calgary. It doesn't get that cold in Calgary very often if at all. Even if it does it be couple days. Its generally in the teens with minus 20's every so often. But minus anything is still cold.
First, you have done a great service highlighting the “regular people” of even a “squatters’” community. Second, about you. One of the reasons your channel is so “watchable“ is due to how articulate and even eloquent you are when you talk about your life and the lives and experiences of those around you. You give thoughtful comments in a very engaging manner. 👍
@@rss608 here in the east coast of canada they will actualy give you a ticket period no questions and then a formal warning that they have your plate and if they find your vehicle on any streets here they will tow it ANDTRUST ME THEY WILL walmart stopped people from staying on their lots but a very public blasting changed their minds in a hurry. so its okay here now anywhere else they are watching and bylaw operate here 24/7 and they are looking for you like your a criminal.. all about the $$$$$ here and also because of tourists and what would it look like for them. like any other tourist city/town what have ya!.
That’s what Ilike about van life., the social and the caring and helping. I’m stuck in my apt due to health problems and I really miss the comradity. Having a few problems with my van and it’s hard to find the right people to help. It is nice that the city allows you all to stay there together. Most cities are trying to rid their cities of tent dwellers as most people think they are all bums and thieves. I hope you all stay together and get thru the winter. Great video and thanks for the info. Take care and stay safe. Ontario senior wish to be full time vanlifer.
Vehicle dwellers can’t be isolated. Banding together especially in area with harsh weather condition is vital to survive. I can’t imagine the degree of coldness living inside a vehicle. Even with insulation it is not enough to keep up core temperature
The old system separates & divides. The divine system connects & supports one another. Governments are separators over the years. That is changing now for unity sake. We are family.
I cried watching this- you not only captured their sense of community but also the resilience of these people . I am an Albertan and yes, the winters can be deadly- are “no joke”. Your ability to connect with people let them trust and open up to you is such a gift, and one that you do with integrity. This is important content Chrome, so well told. ❤
Thanks to Mr. Trudeau and the new world order! Same in Europe! Millions of Immigrants are welcomed, whereas retired people are ignored and left alone with their problems….
@@soniavos3127 so very right and 110% true born and raised in winterpeg and moved to the east coast and the exact same vets are homeless while people from other places around the globe have new condos working at tims HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE WOW!
I did a lot of campgrounds when I first started living in a tent in the back if my Chevy S10 and having my 225 pound doggone but you know I stopped in one campground and was welcomed with open arms by the year round residents. If felt great to have the community there when my tent ripped apart during a particularly heavy storm. One of the guys saw me struggling with my extra tarp and didn't hesitate to come help get it secured down. Yeah my truck tent was tiny but it was home and it was my lil oasis from the crazy world out there. Happy trails and safe travels to you and Cruz!
I've recently came across a home owner who basically camps in his own house. No electricity, burning wood outdoors for cooking. He's behind on the taxes and in danger of loosing the home... what a world...
This makes me sad but it's also so so beautiful. I'm so glad you all have each other. Bruce needs to be protected at all costs!🥰 What a beautiful community. ❤
Is there no possibility of these folks finding “low income subsidized housing” in Calgary? Having a neurological problem that makes me unable to tolerate high temperatures or low temperatures, this kind of living would be an impossibility for me. So I sold my van, surrendered my dreams of van life, and am living in a 2 bedroom condo with a “reverse mortgage”, and hoping I don’t “outlive my funds”. Thank you so much Chrome for showing us, and the world, how harsh vanlife can be in some locations. I wish these people could be given more help. For example, a homeless shelter to go to on frigid nights. They are so blessed to all have each other.
It's strange how things work. USA and Canada are the richest countries in the world but so many people live in cars or on the street. I don't think it's a problem of a lack of houses or apartments. Income inequality is big factor. In my country it's not like that. I think the main difference is we have the "Nordic model" for the economy. But our system can never work in Canada or America, It's to much socialism.
@@cherylgoldman6846and Australia, New Zealand, England, Italy, Spain, Portugal...the globe has no affordable housing, and if you can build it, they won't let ya.😢
These folks are not homeless . They are blessed to be living with such nice down to earth people that with cover their backs . very rare these days . I want to live in a converted bus off grid as soon as I can get one . I wish you all the best .
"Love Thy Neighbor" comes to my mind and I pray about all who are living the best they can for whatever reason. The only thing we can do about the weather is be the best prepared we can be and sometimes as Bruce, "Junior", said, that may not be enough especially if a failure occurs. Thanx Chrome and keep up the content like this as the world needs to see this and not by a TV news crew!!!! Gods Peace and Blessings~
some people in houses share their heat, and some people take care of other people by living in a zero energy building and they dont use chemical toilet, that end up polluting the water lots of places that people can be a part of a group, i can suggest looking up collective´s if you are into that sort of stuff also lots of eco villages i use to live in a city build by hippies, they have invented lots of green inventions that are used worldwide lots of places in the world have accepted, people Squatting in buildings if they are homeless.. moving into a car is not the best way to get anything else or the best way to remind the world homeless people needs places to stay
You know, that is an odd observation. From people in big houses to those living in subsidized housing units. Such unfriendly places and how crime sets in as a result. Yet I've been hearing of Nomad communities being helpful.
This is what all our communities should be , mutual reliance on each other. Sadly our neighbors are strangers and we are all poorer emotionally for it.
Best part of having wheels under you is the ability to live where you won’t freeze or cook to death. I live in Las Vegas, NV and my family is from North Dakota and I’ve always wondered why anyone would decide to settle in either place after a year of living there. 54 degrees below zero and they were like, “eh, that wasn’t that bad” eh, “115 degrees? That wasn’t that bad. Kind of a dry heat”😂
In Canada there really isn't any province that's warm in any way! We don't have the luxury like Americans to just drive to a warm climate without crossing the border into another country!
@@janetcourcelles126wait, Canadians aren’t allowed to freely travel to America and Mexico?! I didn’t know, my apologies for assuming… We have passports here and usually need a visa from the visiting country if we intend to be there for longer periods of time but I don’t think Mexico requires it.
I am new to van life. Only in less than a year and am doing my first winter in wa state. Not too bad with enough blankets. I am lucky to gave found a street where nobody bothers me and is low crime. I have a 2000 toyota sieanna and it just looks like a mommy grocery getter lol
It is an amazing community! I don’t live in my van but know many that do and they are from ALL walks of life. Very interesting people. Thank you Chrome for sharing. Much love from the island. 🍻😉
When the state fails the citizens, this happens... I salute these brave and strong ❤people finding safe community and sticking together, supporting each other and, for some, taking their last stand... This was so humbling to watch Thanking for sharing the truth. Warm greetings from Pretoria, South Africa.😊
I love this episode 🥰. It shows to me that people are amazing beings who, if given opportunity to come together, can show how awesome people really are. Thank you Chrome for being a vessel for van life community. To me you are a legend already.
It’s so awesome to see how the people are coming together to help and protect each other, which you never see in the city. It can’t be easy, especially in the freezing cold winters but they all seem to have a positive attitude.
The press sure has a way to change up reality Tina false truth. It's sad and do frustrating.. love your videos and your story. The one you tell and show all of us. Thank you
Chrome, you often have this amazing music that awakes a fighting sprit, a warrior in me, usually when you bomb through the backcountry.I wish this film in a sense had that music instead of a somewhat sad one, because these people are warriors, true champions., heroes. ❤ I love Bruce so much! ❤ From his first film he has been in my heart. I have gotten to hear about the amazing Vanma Ruth and the whole family, this amazing crew. Lot´s of love @BruceVanLifeJunior, Ruth and everybody! ❤ Thank you Chrome for this video, giving them the spotlight ❤
I Love That This Video Shows Not Only The Beauty Of The Community Aspect,But The Resilience,And The Reality Of It.Very Touching Video.Very Inspiring As Well.
Thanks Chrome - your purpose on this planet is becoming more and more evident, episode by episode! - humanity at its best ...keep up the great work and storytelling! Inspirational.
Beautiful story ! Thank you for shedding light on what most people would think as squatters but are actually part of a community of people from all walks of life helping each other and living in harmony. Thank you 🙏
Oh man, I live in Boise idaho, and my heart goes out to those homeless here in Boise. And we're not near as cold as y'all are. That's why I always donate to the homeless shelter, and give the extra food out of our garden aswell. Community what a beautiful thing.
I can so relate to this, my heater is turned on in November and stays on till March/ April. It is so nice to see everyone helping , great community. Thanks for the tour Chrome.
WHAT A LOVELY MAN JUNIOR IS, AND WHAT A BEAUTIFUL SMILE HE HAS, HIS SMILE LIGHTS HIS WHOLE FACE UP BLESS HIM STAY SAFE JUNIOR AND STAY HAPPY, DONT EVER LOOSE THAT BEAUTIFUL SMILE MAN............ PEACE OUT, DANIELLE,, P. S SENDING JUNIOR PEACE NLOVE. ✌🏼❤️❤️✌🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Awesome community! Thank you, Chrome, for reporting this with warmth and compassion. Many reporters would not have done the same. You are outstanding as usual!
The young van lifers are having an adventure. The senior citizens in this community probably have no choice. I find this video both reassuring and frightening. A lot of the younger van lifers work out of their van and travel to experience the world. A lot of the senior van lifers have nowhere else to go. I find that frightening. For seniors in this community, it is a blessing and a life saver.
This van life community and you, Chrome, is was what attracted me to this lifestyle and to get my van. These tough Calgarians are SIMPLY AMAZING! Keeping it REAL.
Wow..what a heartfelt story of survivors who have got eachother's back!!!! Love your story and information on what and where ppl are living and surviving..thank you for opening our eyes ❤
Wow thank you for sharing this video and a big thank you to everybody that share their stories I'm going to have to go back and watch it again. Have a great day
Thank you Chrome and everybody in the community for sharing your challenges and still positive. Knowing everybody is really a nice thing to experience even I'm in the other side of the world. Stay safe everyone!
Hey chrome, that is so awesome that you went in Calgary to show van lifers that are doing it the right way. That was so awesome to see Vanma, Ruth and Bruce. They are both amazing thank you chrome for sharing. You are amazing you always make my day you guys be safe out there 🇺🇸♥️😎🙏✌️👍🐾⛰️🚐🇨🇦
You know the people in Maui, HI are now living in a Cosco parking lot because they lost their home to the fire. Cosco brought in porta pottys. Shame on anybody who puts anybody down for having to live in your car..or van, or camper, or tent. Not everyone is a drug addict. Half of America is one pay check away from homelessness..
THIS ^
Word
😢
Amen! Middle class being forced / priced out of their homes!
When I visited Maui in 09 I chatted with locals, always my goal when I travel, who told me about the high cost of living then. Over 50% need some kind of aid and I don't know how many were living out of their cars, on the beach or in tents. And they were employed. As a society we are waaay to quick to judge
All these folks are sweet and kind , this tells me , we all really need smaller affordable homes for people , especially the elderly .
Yup just beautiful people
@@VANCITYVANLIFE You're right Chrome, just goes to show not everyone living in a car is a bum
yeah, they should've gave veterans those Humvees instead of just leaving them to be used against us.
@@VANCITYVANLIFEMy comment failed ..I was saying NOT ALL PEOPLE WHO LIVE THIS LIFESTYLE ARE HOMELESS AND DESTITUTE . In fact,MOST live 100X better ..than we who live month to month paying for a crappy apartment..My long term plan is to move into a van or a camper truck .Thank you for the info.greeting from The Lone Star State ........in the 30s today 💨
3 billionaires are causing the epidemic of high housing costs
Happy to see this video NOT dehumanizing these people.
Me too......
Mr Chrome is a long time van lifer, and is a class act. He would never do that.
You can't imagine the crushing, debilitating depression homelessness brings. I feel so deeply for these people.
Enough to let one winter over at your place until Spring?..
I live in a van, and I feel deep sadness for people living for a house.
Are these conscious choice…did most of these people decide to live in their vans or is this strife……I’m unsure what I should be feeling as we don’t really have back stories…..just breakdown stories about cold…
Oh. I can...
Is this engagement farming or are you being serious?
It’s not paradise but when people look out for each other life can be great
Paradise is coming though, see Revelation 21 :1-5 & 11 :18. Til then "hold fast"! (1Thess.5 :21)
@@garyneilson3075 Revelation 21 :1-5 & 11 :18. Til then "hold fast"! (1Thess.5 :21) Amen brother Amen..
@@garyneilson3075 please no
Community, why the encampments exist, you wouldn't think ....but folks in encampments are actually more community minded than many neighborhoods .
Canada is just as shady as AMERICA
From the USA. I love working on cars and other mechanical things. My dream one day is to own a non profit shop that can fix vehicles for people who live in their vehicles and might not be able to afford their repairs. No idea how I will be able to do it but Im gonna work hard to get there. It might take me 30 years but its a dream.
May your dreams come true.
Bright blessings, May your dream come true. I have a camper van and hope to travel someday. For now, it’s weekend camping trips testing and retesting my setup.
You have a great idea which will help a lot of people. You can do it!
What a great dream you can do it.
You're who Warren Buffett should fund with the billions he's committed to leaving.
Ruth made me cry when she remarked about her community of love. This is how the world needs to work.
The folks really running things behind the scenes don’t want us to get along and love one another.if we did we’d realize we need to get rid of them and the systems of oppression they’ve built around us.
@@erikkibler3466I'm sure if we ask nicely they will just stop. Our complacency and kindness are our downfall.
So very true 😊
Lived in Calgary when I was a kid and I am truly impressed that they can survive a winter in their vehicle, so thrilled that a community of people rally to help one another get by. Way to go
I lived in Santa Barbara, Cali in the 90s. They passed a law no overnight parking in residential areas. Why? Cause people living in vehicles of various kinds would park in front of someone’s house, throw their trash in their yard, and leave their big gulp pee cups and poop bags on the sidewalk. A few ruined it for the many.
Yes it happens but I have no problem letting them connect to electrical power for a few days 😊
We all can help the older people who can’t work anymore 😊
@@philliphall5198I'll do the same. 2024
That’s dreadful 😐
@katy, at one time Santa B. had a dedicated asphalt parking lot for car dwellers. Think it was open from 6pm to 6am.
What a sweet old guy and his dog .. ❤
It's is a great community...Bruce had a bad tooth ack and one of the community members paid 600 to fix his tooth...I cried!😊
Don't you guys have free Healthcare? Does dental not fall under that?
That is so very kind they helped him 💰
@@specops1903 Health care in Canada is a joke
@@JosephJoseph-ij5sr really?? How so
Dental care has not been provided for by the gov't. Supposedly they are starting some kind of program soon. We'll see. We end up paying lots for dental and vision care.
I’m a survivor of the dubbed campfire November 8,2018 it tore my beautiful little town of paradise to the ground. I’m very resilient at least that’s what I tell myself everyday flashbacks are fantastic I hear sirens I’m on high alert I see flames smell smoke I’m very timid and in fear of losing my life. P.T.S.D really sucks
Chrome, as a full time nomad myself living in a 2017 Subaru Outback, I really appreciate your sharing the story of the Calgary community. May they be an inspiration to anyone considering the possibility of living in a vehicle. Thank you. Walk in Beauty,
Don
And may the information you have provided serve them well.
Cold world, warm hearts.
I like that. "Walk in beauty". May I use it?
@@merlin0215 it is part of the Beautyway Prayer from Dine’ (Navajo) culture. I don’t think they will mind.
This is what the world needs more of, genuine people helping people, loving one another,❤️
Yep, Bruce Jr. did a transmission repair for another Vanlifer, on the spot, at the side of the road, he ROCKS van life.
Would you know the location, unfortunate I am homeless in 10 days but I have a RV I need to park and live in
@@JamesFowler-fn6le would you be willing to, sublet?
The truest definition of community. Everyone on equal footing. Everyone experiencing the same challenges. Everyone willing to look after each other and help when help is needed. Communities like this ARE the big society.
You’re 100% correct! Equals 🟰 respect
Thank you for humanizing those living on the edge of society and for giving us a brief glimpse at the warm and loving communities that they form.
" on the edge of society"? What's THAT?
Those $3 emergency blankets really do work buy those.
Put a blanket or 2 or sleeping bag over you tuck the emergency blanket around and slightly under you. You will be so warm in the coldest temperatures you will have to take some covers off. You can also glue those to the walls around your Van and it will reflect all the heat that your heaters are putting out back to you, they honestly will help a great deal.
The press always act like your friend, they pat you on the back trying to find a spot to insert the pointy sharp thing.
Yes! All they want is a story. Period.
Well the Press is over half owned and fully controlled by the governments on this entire continent, don't know about Mexico... Research that Fact !!
Pointer shark thing? 🤔
Yes they do. Well said
Agreed. It's the old kiss then slap.
What a beautiful person that guy Bruce is. Always happy to have a knock on the door to help out others, yet fixes his heating problem, at - 40 something degrees, on his own as he did not want to wake people up for help.
Sadly, in the USA, the housing prices have become out of many ppls reach to even rent, let alone buy. We need affordable housing.
They have that in California, two jobs I work & I'm 1,300 short...on they cheap rent 😂😂😂
The same thing is happening here in Australia
Ain't gonna happen under socialism. Vote them out .
@@PeacefulTraveller888It's by design. Been watching it ever since they got Europe.
Thank you for sharing this community with us, Chrome and Bruce "Junior". Telling their stories hopefully helps sticks and bricks dwellers, or those who think of VanLifers as cast away people, that there is a community of people who not only enjoy their lifestyle but also prefer the lifestyle. In addition, they've become a closer family than many who live in neighborhoods where they don't even know their neighbor's name. Thank you both for opening people's eyes...
Yup :)
Tiny home communities could solve a lot of homeless issues
@john-danson3113 Odd how officialdom tends to screw up the concept. Seems they try too hard to gentrify what they would otherwise view as squatters. Rules, regulations and by-laws just get in the way of an organically grown community.
We do have tiny homes. It's off 36st and 8 Ave in the NE
The price of a tiny is now outrageous though
Naw it won't work, they'll be charging 3,300 a mo in no time 😂😂 js
It's hard to find spots for them
I am 70 and pretty active. I have my social security, own my home, and have a business. I have been homeless. It's beutal in Texas in the summer. Thank you for telling the truth about these folks.
Hearing the consistent message from everyone about caring for one another brought tears to my eyes. It's such a great reminder of what community can and should look like.
💔💔💖💖❤❤💕💕❣❣💓💓
😉same here🙏💔🙏
When the lady said ‘they saved my life’ 😢
This is how America USED to be ....
Exactly, same for me. 😊
I think you guys are amazing. Anyone who judges you or denies a place to park lack are a shame on humanity.
Beautiful! In the six and a half years living in my minivan I have encountered the most beautiful, most helpful people and most loving people. We are nomads!!
OMG, I just came across this video. I'm so deeply touched by this group. I live in an apartment inn Portland, OR and there is NO community to be found. Thank you for sharing. So heartwarming and it make me cry to what they have in midst of such hardship and those of us that have so much do not have community. Bless them!
This is, without a doubt, the very best video that you've ever made. Intelligent, sensitive, informative and interesting. Looking forward to more videos from you. Stay safe.
100,000 thumbs up!🐕🦺
Could not have described the video and interviews better. I was moved by how supportive everyone is of each other during challenging times. If only the world was full of such loving and caring people. It’s priceless. We are steadily getting there, but still a way to go……..Thank you for an important reminder.
Love this!
Love to Ruth from Australia, I came close to houseless living. I worked so hard to advocate for myself and other elders. Volunteering and cooking for homeless folk. I was gifted a beachfront apartment, subsidised rent for life. Australia is the lucky country, I got lucky. Widows like myself are seen as trash without an estate funded life.😢
Remote rural off grid here NSW
@@TheSilmarilliandoing the same in upper Murry VIC. Lucky enough to own my land tho
It isn't going to get any easier for us in the youth camp. I'm in my 30s and trust me, life isn't easier either living paycheck to damn paycheck as a healthcare worker too
Same way here in US, my neighbor was left to die motionless, alone, months after months in her bed, true story
This video has a double effect on the viewer. On one hand makes one happy for ALL the ❤ & caring out there on the streets & on the other hand makes one sad. Life can be as brutal as the winter out there.
Hello our Alberta neighbors. Right below in Montana. Stay safe. ❤️✌️
BruceVanlifeJunior and his group are so much a community to aspire to. They really look after eachother and help eachother.
Is that the name of the Chinese guy ?
@susanwright1999 Bruce is the young guy in the beginning. Big Z(?spelling) Vanlife is the Asian gentleman in the minivan. Both have RUclips channels. Bruce's is growing fast.
@@rajanikumari3672 yeah he seems so nice n sweet.. was wondering why Chrome wouldnt guest appear in his last video since he obviously guested on his..
I like to know of this location I may be houseless soon I might as well be there as well. I reside in Lethbridge and I'm disabled and living poor. So if anyone can pass on the exact location of this community that will be great. Thank u.
What a wonderful story,about real people forging a community that helps one another! I live in a neighborhood of Million $$$ homes in Carmel,Cal.....and ...almost nobody knows one another. This is so inspiring!
Calgary is so cold we had to plug our block heaters in at night during the winter. We did van life and trailer life there in the early 80's. If we didn't have friends in houses that would let us plug in we would not have survived. We also burned a fortune's worth of propane. In places where you don't have to move, bales of hay around the bottom of the vehicle helps. Thanks for this post, Chrome.
Yes, and hillbilly winter skirt, if you can get away with it.....
"Solitude" seems to be a privilege of the housed and wealthy. I know that when you've lost everything, "community" becomes an incredibly vital part of getting grounded again and finding your footing.
I have so much love for these folks 🥰
@@cassiehartford8997 you're absolutely right. One hasn't lost everything if they have community. I find it so sad for humanity when society turns their backs on homeless people. Instead of offering judgement we need to offer understanding.
Their stories are so full of emotion, such a shame there isn't places they can park with some safety of walls or foliage against the brutal winds in the winter. Amazing community full of equally amazing people who really know what the word community means ... some people could learn a lot from them x I genuinely wish them all the very best and thanks Chrome for ensuring the truth be told and not twisted !! xxx
Collectively we are realizing we need one another
We are all connected.
Hi Chrome, this is Cory from Ret.firefightercory. Sorry I missed you 😢 I’m so glad that I was able to meet you in person a few weeks ago thanks to the amazing loving community that I have been apart of. Thank you for sharing our community with everyone ❤❤ we are all here for each other no matter what we need or can do to be there for each other. Thanks again Chrome and Cruz much luv ❤❤
Being from Australia I can’t even imagine how cold -40 is but I can tell you that this story and community has warmed my heart.
@Easystreet001 the last time the temp got down to -40C was in Nov 2006. In addition, diesel fuel gels in the cold temps, as does propane, so heaters cannot function.
Also from Australia. At least we do not experience these extreme temperatures.
@@Easystreet001 just imagine 40" heat
I live in Edmonton , north of Calgary. It doesn't get that cold in Calgary very often if at all. Even if it does it be couple days. Its generally in the teens with minus 20's every so often. But minus anything is still cold.
In the last 14 years Calgary´s lowest temp has ranged from -26 to -33 celsius each year. Far from -48 but still quite extreme for any big city.
First, you have done a great service highlighting the “regular people” of even a “squatters’” community. Second, about you. One of the reasons your channel is so “watchable“ is due to how articulate and even eloquent you are when you talk about your life and the lives and experiences of those around you. You give thoughtful comments in a very engaging manner. 👍
I think it is time that the cities, counties and feds open and pay for free off street parking for these folks using the land that they have taken.
@@rss608 here in the east coast of canada they will actualy give you a ticket period no questions and then a formal warning that they have your plate and if they find your vehicle on any streets here they will tow it ANDTRUST ME THEY WILL walmart stopped people from staying on their lots but a very public blasting changed their minds in a hurry. so its okay here now anywhere else they are watching and bylaw operate here 24/7 and they are looking for you like your a criminal.. all about the $$$$$ here and also because of tourists and what would it look like for them. like any other tourist city/town what have ya!.
That’s what Ilike about van life., the social and the caring and helping. I’m stuck in my apt due to health problems and I really miss the comradity. Having a few problems with my van and it’s hard to find the right people to help.
It is nice that the city allows you all to stay there together. Most cities are trying to rid their cities of tent dwellers as most people think they are all bums and thieves.
I hope you all stay together and get thru the winter. Great video and thanks for the info.
Take care and stay safe.
Ontario senior wish to be full time vanlifer.
Vehicle dwellers can’t be isolated. Banding together especially in area with harsh weather condition is vital to survive. I can’t imagine the degree of coldness living inside a vehicle. Even with insulation it is not enough to keep up core temperature
The old system separates & divides. The divine system connects & supports one another. Governments are separators over the years. That is changing now for unity sake. We are family.
I couldn't imagine sleeping in a vehicle during a Calgarian winter.
Thank you so much for sharing! Everyone seems lovely.
I cried watching this- you not only captured their sense of community but also the resilience of these people . I am an Albertan and yes, the winters can be deadly- are “no joke”. Your ability to connect with people let them trust and open up to you is such a gift, and one that you do with integrity. This is important content Chrome, so well told. ❤
Me too, some people can't drive to a wrm climate to stay warm. Immigrants get better treatment ten our elderly and veterans and homeless. 😢
Thanks to Mr. Trudeau and the new world order! Same in Europe! Millions of Immigrants are welcomed, whereas retired people are ignored and left alone with their problems….
@@soniavos3127 so very right and 110% true born and raised in winterpeg and moved to the east coast and the exact same vets are homeless while people from other places around the globe have new condos working at tims HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE WOW!
This is so awesome! Real people living with the family they make, not the ones they’re born into.
I did a lot of campgrounds when I first started living in a tent in the back if my Chevy S10 and having my 225 pound doggone but you know I stopped in one campground and was welcomed with open arms by the year round residents. If felt great to have the community there when my tent ripped apart during a particularly heavy storm. One of the guys saw me struggling with my extra tarp and didn't hesitate to come help get it secured down. Yeah my truck tent was tiny but it was home and it was my lil oasis from the crazy world out there. Happy trails and safe travels to you and Cruz!
I've recently came across a home owner who basically camps in his own house. No electricity, burning wood outdoors for cooking. He's behind on the taxes and in danger of loosing the home... what a world...
This makes me sad but it's also so so beautiful. I'm so glad you all have each other. Bruce needs to be protected at all costs!🥰 What a beautiful community. ❤
Pioneering survivalist's ❤ goes out to you all
THANK YOU FOR THE LOVE ❤️
So sad there's no affordable housing.... come on CANADA🇨🇦...WINTER IS HARSH!!
Is there no possibility of these folks finding “low income subsidized housing” in Calgary? Having a neurological problem that makes me unable to tolerate high temperatures or low temperatures, this kind of living would be an impossibility for me. So I sold my van, surrendered my dreams of van life, and am living in a 2 bedroom condo with a “reverse mortgage”, and hoping I don’t “outlive my funds”. Thank you so much Chrome for showing us, and the world, how harsh vanlife can be in some locations. I wish these people could be given more help. For example, a homeless shelter to go to on frigid nights. They are so blessed to all have each other.
It's even worse in the USA
It's strange how things work. USA and Canada are the richest countries in the world but so many people live in cars or on the street.
I don't think it's a problem of a lack of houses or apartments. Income inequality is big factor.
In my country it's not like that. I think the main difference is we have the "Nordic model" for the economy. But our system can never work in Canada or America, It's to much socialism.
Thanks for sharing this with us, Chrome .
@@cherylgoldman6846and Australia, New Zealand, England, Italy, Spain, Portugal...the globe has no affordable housing, and if you can build it, they won't let ya.😢
These folks are not homeless . They are blessed to be living with such nice down to earth people that with cover their backs . very rare these days . I want to live in a converted bus off grid as soon as I can get one . I wish you all the best .
What an awesome community, I love that they've built this close-knit group that helps one another.
In Wetaskiwin, about 2 and a half hours north of Calgary today (January 13th 2024) its -42, -52 with windchill. Thinking and praying for you guys!
Thats awesome to have people care for each other like that. Thanks fir sharing this wonderful community.
What a wonderful thing that they’re all sticking together and helping each other❤
Great episode! People are struggling everywhere and a community that helps each other is a must ❤
Thank you Calgary for sharing space with nomads
"Love Thy Neighbor" comes to my mind and I pray about all who are living the best they can for whatever reason. The only thing we can do about the weather is be the best prepared we can be and sometimes as Bruce, "Junior", said, that may not be enough especially if a failure occurs. Thanx Chrome and keep up the content like this as the world needs to see this and not by a TV news crew!!!! Gods Peace and Blessings~
I've been watching your videos for a while without commenting. I just want to say that this was a great story, and I feel blessed for watching it.
Great folks, great video! Thank you for sharing! Stay safe folks! 🇨🇦
if only housing communities would band together like that. this world could be so much better if people would just care about others.
some people in houses share their heat, and some people take care of other people by living in a zero energy building
and they dont use chemical toilet, that end up polluting the water
lots of places that people can be a part of a group, i can suggest looking up collective´s if you are into that sort of stuff
also lots of eco villages
i use to live in a city build by hippies, they have invented lots of green inventions that are used worldwide
lots of places in the world have accepted, people Squatting in buildings if they are homeless..
moving into a car is not the best way to get anything else
or the best way to remind the world homeless people needs places to stay
💯
You know, that is an odd observation. From people in big houses to those living in subsidized housing units. Such unfriendly places and how crime sets in as a result. Yet I've been hearing of Nomad communities being helpful.
@alainarchambault2331 😂😂 yeah, no crime there
And yet for example you do nothing to band together to help others.
This is what all our communities should be , mutual reliance on each other. Sadly our neighbors are strangers and we are all poorer emotionally for it.
Best part of having wheels under you is the ability to live where you won’t freeze or cook to death. I live in Las Vegas, NV and my family is from North Dakota and I’ve always wondered why anyone would decide to settle in either place after a year of living there. 54 degrees below zero and they were like, “eh, that wasn’t that bad” eh, “115 degrees? That wasn’t that bad. Kind of a dry heat”😂
I'm a vanlife too and living in Vegas but I can't do summers in Vegas way too hot..how do u handle the heat?
@@marissatemotio1320 I’m still living in a house and haven’t taken flight yet…
@@livinginavwvan207tru, I don't know why you would put yourself in that kind of position
In Canada there really isn't any province that's warm in any way! We don't have the luxury like Americans to just drive to a warm climate without crossing the border into another country!
@@janetcourcelles126wait, Canadians aren’t allowed to freely travel to America and Mexico?! I didn’t know, my apologies for assuming…
We have passports here and usually need a visa from the visiting country if we intend to be there for longer periods of time but I don’t think Mexico requires it.
I am new to van life. Only in less than a year and am doing my first winter in wa state. Not too bad with enough blankets. I am lucky to gave found a street where nobody bothers me and is low crime. I have a 2000 toyota sieanna and it just looks like a mommy grocery getter lol
I've been a nomad for over 20 years in the pacific northwest and I've yet to find any community like that. 😊
Keep looking, don't give up. Maybe you could be the gatherer. You know, start a group (that may turn into a community in the future).
Im from the NC live PNW people are not that friendly.
This was such a beautiful video...we need more like this. It's amazing when people are happier with less. Sends a powerful message to the rest of us ☺
It is an amazing community! I don’t live in my van but know many that do and they are from ALL walks of life. Very interesting people. Thank you Chrome for sharing. Much love from the island. 🍻😉
Yes we need to help each other .... KINDNESS ALWAYS WINS
When the state fails the citizens, this happens...
I salute these brave and strong ❤people finding safe community and sticking together, supporting each other and, for some, taking their last stand...
This was so humbling to watch
Thanking for sharing the truth.
Warm greetings from Pretoria, South Africa.😊
Thanx Chrome....and "community"...for sharing....GREAT VIDEO(from 4year solo femaleNomad,abd I,m 75....hope I see you abd Crusie on the road
I love this episode 🥰. It shows to me that people are amazing beings who, if given opportunity to come together, can show how awesome people really are. Thank you Chrome for being a vessel for van life community. To me you are a legend already.
It’s so awesome to see how the people are coming together to help and protect each other, which you never see in the city. It can’t be easy, especially in the freezing cold winters but they all seem to have a positive attitude.
The press sure has a way to change up reality Tina false truth. It's sad and do frustrating.. love your videos and your story. The one you tell and show all of us. Thank you
Awesome love one another building community
Chrome, you often have this amazing music that awakes a fighting sprit, a warrior in me, usually when you bomb through the backcountry.I wish this film in a sense had that music instead of a somewhat sad one, because these people are warriors, true champions., heroes. ❤ I love Bruce so much! ❤ From his first film he has been in my heart. I have gotten to hear about the amazing Vanma Ruth and the whole family, this amazing crew. Lot´s of love @BruceVanLifeJunior, Ruth and everybody! ❤ Thank you Chrome for this video, giving them the spotlight ❤
I Love That This Video Shows Not Only The Beauty Of The Community Aspect,But The Resilience,And The Reality Of It.Very Touching Video.Very Inspiring As Well.
Thanks Chrome - your purpose on this planet is becoming more and more evident, episode by episode! - humanity at its best ...keep up the great work and storytelling! Inspirational.
Beautiful story !
Thank you for shedding light on what most people would think as squatters but are actually part of a community of people from all walks of life helping each other and living in harmony.
Thank you 🙏
Well done Chrome. Thank you for sharing this wonderful community with us. I wish them safety, warmth and the respect they deserve.
Oh man, I live in Boise idaho, and my heart goes out to those homeless here in Boise. And we're not near as cold as y'all are. That's why I always donate to the homeless shelter, and give the extra food out of our garden aswell. Community what a beautiful thing.
what is the average temp in Idaho? In winter?
I live in Boise Idaho too
While I have always enjoyed your channel, I must say that this broadcast has raised the bar enormously! AWESOME MY FRIEND!
These lovely people walk in grace. So much to learn from them; lovingkindness, resilience...💕
Thank you for this, Chrome. I’m not a vehicle dweller but I have been homeless. Without community I wouldn’t have made it. 🖤🖤🖤
I can so relate to this, my heater is turned on in November and stays on till March/ April. It is so nice to see everyone helping , great community. Thanks for the tour Chrome.
WHAT A LOVELY MAN JUNIOR IS, AND WHAT A BEAUTIFUL SMILE HE HAS, HIS SMILE LIGHTS HIS WHOLE FACE UP BLESS HIM STAY SAFE JUNIOR AND STAY HAPPY, DONT EVER LOOSE THAT BEAUTIFUL SMILE MAN............ PEACE OUT, DANIELLE,, P. S SENDING JUNIOR PEACE NLOVE. ✌🏼❤️❤️✌🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Awesome community! Thank you, Chrome, for reporting this with warmth and compassion. Many reporters would not have done the same. You are outstanding as usual!
Big C's minivan with plants, singing, inside the van; I appreciate his vibe.
What a great story thank you for sharing. We need to build more community like that everywhere.
The young van lifers are having an adventure. The senior citizens in this community probably have no choice. I find this video both reassuring and frightening. A lot of the younger van lifers work out of their van and travel to experience the world. A lot of the senior van lifers have nowhere else to go. I find that frightening. For seniors in this community, it is a blessing and a life saver.
The woman in her 70's living in a minivan...that is sad.
This van life community and you, Chrome, is was what attracted me to this lifestyle and to get my van. These tough Calgarians are SIMPLY AMAZING! Keeping it REAL.
#1, cover your windows with reflection! HUGE, HUGE, HUGE difference! Stayed in -34 with a broken propane furnace in a b van for 4 days
Wow man..thanks for sharing this humbling experience. A whole new perspective has been created. Props to all those winter van warriors.
Wow..what a heartfelt story of survivors who have got eachother's back!!!! Love your story and information on what and where ppl are living and surviving..thank you for opening our eyes ❤
Migrants killed everyone of them I heard .
Chrome I think this was one of your best videos. Just love to see people taking care of each other we need more of that in this world.
Oh Chrome if only the world could learn this valuable lesson....thanks for the great video!
Wow thank you for sharing this video and a big thank you to everybody that share their stories I'm going to have to go back and watch it again.
Have a great day
Thank you Chrome and everybody in the community for sharing your challenges and still positive. Knowing everybody is really a nice thing to experience even I'm in the other side of the world. Stay safe everyone!
Hey chrome, that is so awesome that you went in Calgary to show van lifers that are doing it the right way. That was so awesome to see Vanma, Ruth and Bruce. They are both amazing thank you chrome for sharing. You are amazing you always make my day you guys be safe out there 🇺🇸♥️😎🙏✌️👍🐾⛰️🚐🇨🇦
The quality of your video and audio is amazing! Really professional!