HomelessnessHousing Homeless PeopleWho are Ottawa's homeless people? Who are Ottawa's homeless people?Most homeless people in Ottawa are men, women, youth and children who have lost their homes because they have either suffered abuse, lost their jobs, faced unmanageable living expenses, or have mental health or addiction problems. Others are newcomers to the city who cannot find affordable housing. There are other homeless people in Ottawa besides the men, women and children who fill Ottawa's emergency shelters each night. They include the few people who actually live on the streets as well as the hundreds of "hidden" homeless people staying with friends or family, often in very overcrowded conditions. Hundreds of other people are at risk of becoming homeless, including those in households that pay 70 per cent or more of their income for rent, as well as those living in unsafe rental units. Housing services for homeless peopleDid you know?
Preventing homelessness is a big part of the work the City of Ottawa funds. And this work is paying off! One study showed that almost all (89 per cent) of 1,588 families and individuals who received services funded by the City of Ottawa for housing loss prevention were successful in keeping their housing. The City of Ottawa Housing Branch funds community agencies that, in turn, help homeless people and those at risk of becoming homeless. This collaborative effort has developed into a system of services that ranges from preventing homelessness to helping people find permanent housing.
A work in progress...Serving people with special needs in residential care
The Housing Branch subsidizes 850 clients in 25 residential care facilities in Ottawa. They range in size from 20 to 170 beds, and provide care for people who are elderly, frail or have special needs that require residential care. These homes provide direct and easy access to both health care and other community resources. The City of Ottawa Housing Branch will continue to focus on building the community's capacity to better meet the needs of homeless people. New funding from the federal government will be used to increase the number of transitional and supportive housing units (affordable housing with supports that help the residents live as independently as possible). The City of Ottawa is committed to making sure that the number of homeless families and individuals is reduced. While, at the same time ensuring that homeless people receive the services they need. Want more information?For more information about housing-related services for homeless people in Ottawa, contact the City of Ottawa's Housing Branch at 613-580-2424 ext. 15696. |
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