How has Calgary Addressed our Homeless Issue?

The homelessness issue in Calgary, like in many other cities, is complex and influenced by multiple factors. Some key reasons include:

1. Affordable Housing Shortage: Calgary has experienced a shortage of affordable housing options, making it difficult for low-income individuals and families to find stable homes.

2. Economic Factors: Fluctuations in the economy, including employment rates and income levels, can impact people’s ability to afford housing, especially during tough economic periods.

3. Mental Health and Substance Use: A significant portion of homelessness is linked to mental health challenges and substance use issues, which can be both causes and consequences of homelessness.

4. Systemic Barriers: Challenges such as lack of access to social supports, trauma, and systemic discrimination can hinder individuals from escaping homelessness.

5. Housing Policies and Availability: Limited availability of social and transitional housing, coupled with long wait times for support programs, exacerbates the homelessness crisis.

6. Social Factors: Personal crises such as family breakdowns, domestic violence, and unexpected financial hardships can lead to homelessness.
   

Calgary’s government and community organizations are working on solutions such as increasing affordable housing, providing enhanced social services, and addressing root causes. However, addressing homelessness requires sustained effort, resources, and cooperation among various sectors.

Here are some specific initiatives that Calgary has implemented to address homelessness:

1. Calgary Homelessness Reduction Strategy: Launched to coordinate efforts across city agencies, nonprofits, and community groups, this strategy aims to reduce and prevent homelessness through targeted programs, improved access to housing, and support services.

2. The Calgary Housing Company (CHC): Provides affordable, social, and supportive housing options for vulnerable populations, with ongoing projects to expand housing stock.

3. The Sweater Project: A community-led initiative that encourages businesses and residents to donate gently used clothing and essential items to homeless populations.

4. Pathways to Housing: A program that offers immediate access to permanent housing combined with supportive services to help individuals stabilize and improve their well-being.

5. The City of Calgary's Outreach Teams: Specialized teams that work directly with homeless individuals on the streets to connect them to housing, health services, and supports.

6. The Community Plan on Homelessness: This plan emphasizes collaboration among government, non-profits, and private sector partners to create long-term solutions and increase affordable housing options.

7. Rapid Re-Housing Programs: Focused on quickly moving people experiencing homelessness into permanent housing with supportive services to prevent recurrence.

8. Investments in Mental Health and Addiction Services: Supporting integrated care for those facing mental health challenges and substance use issues, which are often intertwined with homelessness.
   

These initiatives reflect Calgary’s multi-faceted approach to tackling homelessness through prevention, immediate support, and long-term solutions. Continued investment and policy adaptations are essential for ongoing progress.

This is a Cross-Culture, a Cross-Economic, and Cross-Age, and Cross-Gender Issue. We believe Everyone has the ability to be a step away from being homeless.

The Kollectivevillage.com is working on putting together a comprehensive community resource list for those who are in need of help. Message us if you are a loved one needs help. email: thekollectivevillage@gmail.com