A coordinated approach is in motion to deal with the issue of homelessness in Chatham-Kent.
Valerie Colasanti, director of employment and social services, said a “housing first” approach is being taken in Chatham-Kent to help people find permanent housing and receive the supports they need.
Colasanti said building a homeless shelter is not the answer and is not on Chatham-Kent’s radar.
“Our partners in London and Windsor are looking to shut down their shelters,” Colasanti said.
Effective January 1, 2013, a new consolidated housing and homelessness program was introduced.
The intent of the program was to provide a better coordinated and integrated service delivery system that is people-centered, outcome-focused and reflects a housing first approach to prevent, reduce and address homelessness in communities across Ontario, a staff report states.
The approach emphasizes that ending homelessness is possible, by supporting individuals to
return to permanent housing rather than directing resources primarily toward the provision of emergency shelter and basic needs.
Colasanti said at Monday’s meeting the 10-year homelessness plan approved in Chatham-Kent has led to the creation of a “homelessness response line”, which helps people in need find emergency shelter.
“We have good relationships with our hotels in our community,” she said. “They help us until we find a permanent solution.”
Colasanti said communication between many other stakeholders in the community is improving as well.
“We want to expand,” she said.
Wallaceburg resident Don Wells is a strong advocate for having a homeless shelter built in Chatham-Kent.
Wells provided a deputation to council on Monday night.
“Not every homeless person will benefit from this plan,” Wells said. “There are people that fall between the cracks.”
Wells said many people who are homeless lack “life skills” and are unable to seek the help they need.
“They become invisible,” he said.
Wells added he would like to see council work out a public/private partnership to meet the housing needs for the homeless.
North Kent Coun. Joe Faas said building a homeless shelter is not the way to go.
“It would be a quick fix,” Faas said. “It is not the answer.”
Chatham Coun. Doug Sulman said he was pleased to see the community using the coordinated approach.
“Some people think the solution is to build a building and warehouse them…. this is not the case,” he said.
The plan is set to be discussed further during the 2015 budget deliberations.
