Encampment being removed in Kitchener (update)
Posted Nov 26, 2021 09:23:00 PM.
A small housing encampment at Stirling and Charles Street in Kitchener has been set up for the past few weeks.
It appears those individuals are now being removed from the property and evicted.
A spokesperson for Waterloo Regional Police has confirmed to CityNews 570 that they are on scene helping with the eviction.
The spokesperson said in an email that the eviction is being led by Region of Waterloo Bylaw Enforcement.
Photos are circulating on social media showing heavy equipment on scene and tents being removed.
The following statement was sent to CityNews 570 by the region late Friday afternoon:
“Unsheltered homelessness is a symptom of a lack of affordable housing and we are working hard to add spaces across the community to respond to this increased need. Throughout the week we worked closely with community partners to support the individuals in the encampment. We also worked diligently to notify residents that they could no longer remain at the encampment and needed to access other housing services by today. All individuals left on their own, and are connected to outreach services and supports that are available across the community.”
In what world class community @RegionWaterloo do we criminalize people in need of shelter, destroy their property, knowing there is no alternative. Our CTAs demand an immediate invstmnt in a community led response to the housing crisis. @Jessichutchison @GroundUpWR #reallocateWR pic.twitter.com/Qqg3Rcxpkk
— ReallocateWR (@ReallocateW) November 26, 2021
