By Fred Alvarado Fred is a community journalist with FOCUS MEDIA ARTS CENTRE

On May 22nd, Gordon Tanner, General Manager of Toronto Shelter and Support Services, and Councillor Alejandra Bravo (Davenport), Chair of the Economic & Community Development Committee hosted a media conference, unveiling a transformative shift in the city's strategy toward homeless encampments based on feedback from the public, interested parties, and recommendations from the City’s Ombudsman.  

This encampment staff report prioritizes transparency and coordination, centring on people's needs and dignity. The report will also provide City staff with a clear framework to connect individuals with indoor spaces while also addressing the concerns of surrounding communities.

Councillor Alejandra Bravo stated, “Across Canada, encampments are the result of a lack of affordable housing, increases in rents and cost of living, and inadequate social supports. A growing number of people are struggling to find shelter and housing in our city. This is compounded by a lack of mental heal care, making a growing number of people more vulnerable. The City of Toronto has committed to progressively realizing the right to housing and has an obligation to treat people living in encampments with care and compassion – an approach that has already shown positive results,” Councillor Bravo told reporters.

Toronto Shelter and Support Services (TSSS) staff will present the report to the Economic and Community Development Committee on May 29; If passed by council, it would mark a shift in the city's approach to encampments, from enforcement to outreach and support.

RPTV was at City Hall to document the media conference. Stay tuned for highlights and insights from the event, unveiling the City's evolving approach to homeless encampments.