Fixing the Homeless crisis
Imagine a storm of unfortunate events in your life that would land you with no place to stay. Then imagine if having no place to stay, there are no services available to assist you in getting back up on your feet. That's the current situation in Burlington. Based on the statistics from the region, Burlington has over 100 people living on the street. The overall situation is much worse and to better understand, the different types of homeless need to be presented.
1 Transitional Homelessness
Short-term phase usually lasting less than a year. Typically triggered by a major life event or crisis. People in this category usually move into temporary housing before quickly finding permanent housing.
2 Episodic Homelessness
When a person repeatedly cycles between being housed and unhoused.
3 Chronic Homelessness
This is defined as being continuously homeless for more than a year, or experiencing repeated long-term bouts of homelessness. This group you would see in the encampments and street.
4 Hidden Homelessness
This type involves people who lack a permanent, stable home but do not sleep on the streets or in traditional public shelters. They might be couch-surfing, staying temporarily with friends or family, or living in cars and motels without a long-term lease.
Stage1
We need to get an address for those who have no fixed address
- Getting started with an address will provide homeless the opportunity to file their income tax returns to receive years of benefit payments (GST & Trillium).
- The address will help with other services, including educational, treatment, driver's license etc.
- This would also include registering for Canada Dental Plan
Stage2
Together we need to find the solution
I have worked on many complex projects in the past and this is one I will champion myself. There needs to be a gathering of information understanding the current services and funding that can be made availsble.
This initiative is not just about a shelter with a bed, it's giving someone that opportunity to get back on their feet
Burlington Go Station
This is the current situation in Burlington. During the extreme cold conditions, many homeless will go to warm locations that are open 24 hours.
Stage3
Implementation
As mayor, I will make sure address has been established/secured by end of 2nd quarter 2026. Shelter plan will be developed and procured in 2027. This would include establishing location/services and funding from both provincial and federal governments.
Implementation will be no later than begining of 2028.
This has been a challenge in Burlington for may years and this council has never looked for a solution
Rory Nisan, Marianne Ward and Lisa Kearns want to fine those who want to help those living on the street.
❤️