Ontario faces three crises in housing – attainability, affordability and homelessness. These crises were and are exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The economic chaos created as our American allies become difficult neighbours threatens to pile on top of the COVID-19 damage before our society, systems and people have recovered, and make homelessness even worse, when it has already devastated health for generations. Ontarians experiencing homelessness get sick, stay sick and die young. Street-involved men in Toronto die 24 years younger, and women in Toronto die 42 years younger, than the general population.

Supportive housing combines housing assistance (e.g., rent-geared-to-income and rent supplements) and wrap-around support services (e.g. counselling, addiction supports, life skills training, medication management, and more) to serve diverse client populations. It is critical to meet the needs of those at risk of homelessness or currently experiencing homelessness, individuals with
physical or developmental disabilities, and individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges.

Access this resource to read the recommendations offered.