At a recent packed council meeting for Municipal District of St Stephen the topic of homelessness and the growing number of unsheltered individuals in the community was addressed by council, a key presenter and members of the community..

Vic Thiessen made a presentation to council on behalf of the Unsheltered Population Working Group, which was formed in August 2022 as a response to the concerns surrounding the increasing number of unsheltered individuals in St Stephen. The group comprises a range of organizations, including Horizon Health, Vibrant Communities, Future St. Stephen, Neighbourhood Works, and various others. Together, they have been working towards three main priorities: conducting a survey of the unsheltered population, hiring an outreach worker, and establishing a warming center for the winter months.

The Unsheltered Population Working Group has made significant strides in addressing these priorities. A survey was conducted to gather data on the unsheltered population, providing valuable insights into their demographics, needs, and challenges. This data has been instrumental in informing the development of targeted interventions and support services. Additionally, the working group successfully hired an outreach worker who has been instrumental in connecting with unsheltered individuals, building relationships, and providing access to essential resources. The outreach worker has been able to identify individuals who are most vulnerable and in need of immediate assistance, ensuring that they receive the necessary support.

The working group collaborated with local organizations and agencies to establish a warming center for the winter months. This centre provides a safe and warm space for individuals experiencing homelessness, offering shelter, meals, and access to support services. The warming center has been a crucial resource during the cold winter months, ensuring that individuals have a place to go and receive the care they need.

While significant progress has been made, the council meeting also shed light on the ongoing challenges faced in addressing homelessness. The issue of affordable housing was identified as a key barrier, with limited availability and rising costs contributing to the persistence of homelessness. The working group and council recognized the need for additional efforts to advocate for affordable housing solutions and support initiatives that increase housing options for vulnerable populations.

Additionally, the council meeting emphasized the importance of long-term solutions, rather than just temporary fixes. The working group and stakeholders are committed to exploring sustainable housing models, such as tiny homes and transitional housing programs, to provide individuals with stable, supportive environments that facilitate their transition out of homelessness. Member of the community spoke out in both support of what the initiatives the group has taking and against them, with some community members believing that the group is coddling the unsheltered population and attracting more homelessness to the community in the process.