Friends, locals, fellow advocates mourn loss of Katherine McParland

The news of Katherine McParland's death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from family, friends, locals and those who worked with her.

McParland, who was in her early 30s, died Dec. 4.

She was well-known for her organization, A Way Home Kamloops, and its mission to eradicate youth homelessness, not only in the city but across the province and country.

McParland often drew from her own lived experience when speaking about the topic, to better connect with youth who were experiencing homelessness themselves and explain the issue to people who hadn't. During her time in the foster care system, McParland went through 28 placements and found herself living on the street a number of times. She created A Way Home Kamloops to ensure other youths didn't have to face the same fate.

Many have taken to social media to share their condolences.

Tina Lange, a former city councillor, worked closely with McParland and nominated her for the 2017 Kamloops YMCA-YWCA Peace Medal.

 

Alfred Achoba is the acting executive director of the Kamloops branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association.

Your legacy lives on through the people you impacted including myself and the many times we spent working together.

I will miss you Katharine. Rest In Peace.

— Alfred Achoba (@alfredachoba) December 6, 2020

Local MLAs Peter Milobar and Todd Stone also shared their thoughts. Milobar worked with McParland when he was the mayor of Kamloops.

I’m so sorry to hear of this unexpected loss. Katherine McParland was a young caring, advocate for youth homelessness prevention in the community and her loss will be significantly felt throughout the Kamloops region. My thoughts are with those grieving. https://t.co/4AvINGGMiR

— Peter Milobar (@PeterMilobar) December 6, 2020

 

Very sad to hear that Katherine McParland has passed away. She was so passionate about our vulnerable populations, especially marginalized and homeless youth. A dynamic and promising life ends far too short. Rest In Peace Katherine. #Kamloops https://t.co/SXVlZmBoq7

— Todd Stone (@toddstonebc) December 6, 2020

McParland worked with many local organizations, including the North Shore Business Improvement Association, which helped with the annual Camp Out to End Youth Homelessness.

 

Other locals who were touched by McParland and her work shared their feelings.

 

What a bright light we have lost with the passing of Katherine McParland. So many touched, and so many made better for knowing her.

— Nancy Bepple (@NancyBepple) December 6, 2020

 

We're at a loss for words.

Katherine Mcparland was a pioneering leader in our community and an unreal advocate for our youth.

It was an absolute honour to work with her in years past. Her memory will live on.

Rest in peace friend, you are already missed. pic.twitter.com/1oEPm7ECE0

— Kam Con (@KamCon20) December 6, 2020

 

OMC ?

Literally at a loss for words.

My sincere condolences to your family, closest, colleagues, advocates and community members. Many many prayers.... such a big loss for us all.

Travel swiftly and smoothly warrior hearted woman Katherine Mcparland ? https://t.co/U2rHd3wqJw

— Anna Thomas (@anna_v_thomas) December 6, 2020

 

This just should not happen. What a tragedy. https://t.co/M50E6c1kcT

— Joshua Knaak (@JoshuaKnaak) December 6, 2020

McParland was also a beloved advocate at a national level.

Today we mourn the loss of a powerful & dedicated colleague, Katherine McParland. She was a true crusader for Kamloops' most vulnerable & changed many lives through her work, courage & passion. Our hearts & thoughts go out to Katherine's friends & family in this difficult time.

— A Way Home Canada (@AWayHomeCa) December 7, 2020

 

We are saddened to hear of the passing of Katherine McPharland, a driving force in Canada’s #housing sector and A Way Home #Kamloops. Her devotion to end youth homelessness left a mark on so many. Our deepest condolences to her colleagues and loved ones.

— CMHC (@CMHC_ca) December 7, 2020

 

My thoughts are with her friends, family, community and @AWayHomeCa colleagues in Kamloops and across the country. She helped so many people. ?

— Janet GwilliamWright (@JGwilliamWright) December 7, 2020

 

I’m gutted to hear of the passing of Katherine McParland. I met her on a federal homelessness committee where she was a persuasive, determined & powerful presence / 1https://t.co/Tzui6MOnyt

— Tim Richter (@timrichter) December 7, 2020

A Way Home Kamloops is holding a press conference at 11 a.m. this morning. Check back with Castanet for more.