Nearly 2,000 people across Durham Region, including Ajax, have asked for help to end their homelessness, according to the Region of Durham.
The figure was released as the region marks World Homeless Day on October 10, an occasion it is using to raise awareness and continue working to remove barriers to safe, affordable housing. The region says most people experiencing homelessness do not choose to live that way, and that housing is a basic human need.
A housing-focused system
As Service System Manager for local homelessness supports, the Region of Durham uses what it describes as a housing-focused approach. Under that model, all supports, services and strategies, including shelters, are treated as parts of a single system aimed at helping people secure and keep permanent housing.
The region says many people experiencing homelessness need more than housing services to stay in a permanent home. That can include life skills building, mental health and addictions services, and employment support or training. As of August, 93 per cent of people experiencing homelessness in Durham had identified as having mid to very high-acuity needs, meaning they required support from multiple services to remain housed.
In response, the region says it takes a co-ordinated approach, connecting people with the services that match their needs.
Transitional housing across the region
People in transitional supportive housing programs receive accommodation along with wraparound services designed to give them the tools and knowledge to overcome barriers to housing, according to a Region of Durham news release.
The region has developed two local transitional housing residences: Beaverton Heights and the Oshawa Micro-Homes. A third project is underway at 1635 Dundas Street East in Whitby, where the second and third floors are being converted into supportive, transitional housing units. The purpose of the programs is to bridge the gap between homelessness and permanent housing.
435 people housed this year
As of August, the region had supported 435 individuals with moving into housing this year. It says it continues to connect with people experiencing homelessness through community access points and Regional Street Outreach, and works with all levels of government, health services and community partners toward the shared goal of ending chronic homelessness.
"While homelessness remains a complex issue, there can be lasting change when all levels of government, health services and the community work together. Every person in Durham Region needs a roof over their head; it is a basic human right." — Regional Chair and CEO John Henry, in a Region of Durham news release
How to get help
Residents experiencing homelessness, or anyone seeking support on their behalf, can contact the region by email at HomelessHelp@durham.ca, by phone at 905-668-4113 extension 5510, or toll free at 1-800-372-1102 extension 5510. Callers can also dial 311 within region limits and ask for extension 5510.
