Over 2,300 people experiencing homelessness in Waterloo Region: survey

New data coming from the Region of Waterloo Housing Services shows 2,371 individuals are currently experiencing homelessness in Waterloo Region: more than double the count from the last survey completed in 2021.

The numbers come as part of the nationally coordinated Point-in-Time (PiT) Counts of Homelessness in Canada. The PiT Count is a community-level, comprehensive measure of sheltered and unsheltered homelessness that provides a picture of individuals experiencing homelessness at a single point in time.

The latest results show a 119 per cent increase in homelessness over the past three years.

“Rising rates of homelessness are seen throughout the country and are the result of the housing affordability crisis, rising costs of living, poverty, traumatic life events, mental health, and substance-use challenges,” said the Region of Waterloo Housing Services in a statement.

The latest count was conducted in late October over a 24-hour period, with cooperation from the region and more than 40 community partners including hospitals, correctional facilities, rural and Indigenous groups, along with all seven municipalities in the area. It is now the fourth count conducted for Waterloo Region.

“This broader scope signifies that while chronic homelessness is a major component of the total, the PiT Count also captures individuals in situations such as emergency shelter stays, temporary housing, or those staying in places not meant for human habitation,” said the Region.

If the 28 per cent annual increase in chronic homelessness continues, the community will have triple the number of residents experiencing chronic homelessness by 2028.

According to the Key Findings report of the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness, released in September of 2023, chronic homelessness has been increasing at an average rate of 28 per cent since 2020.

“If the 28 per cent annual increase in chronic homelessness continues, the community will have triple the number of residents experiencing chronic homelessness by 2028,” said the Region.

570 NewsRadio asked for further details on the demographics, locations, and further information on the findings, but a staff member with the Region said additional information will not be shared with the public until early 2025.

The information from the count will now be brought to the upcoming Strategic Planning and Budget Committee meeting on Nov. 27, where discussions will be held on whether additional funding is needed to address the issue.