The city is taking steps to protect homeless people as freezing temperatures hit Ottawa. CTV
Ottawa is witnessing a growing homelessness crisis, with the latest data showing a significant rise in the number of people without stable housing. A recent Point-In-Time (PIT) survey conducted in October revealed that 2,952 people in the city were homeless. This marks an increase from 2,612 in 2021 and 1,654 in 2018.
According to the survey, 58% of those experiencing homelessness are between 25 and 49 years old, with the average age of first-time homelessness being 32.
Key Findings of the Survey:
- 56% of respondents identified as male, 36% as female, and 2% as Two Spirit, Trans-women, Trans-men, or Non-binary.
- 56% of those surveyed identified as racialized, while 19% reported Indigenous ancestry.
- The most common reason for losing housing was an inability to afford rent, largely due to rising living costs.
Stories from Those Affected
For many, homelessness can happen unexpectedly. Imre Nagy, who recently arrived at the Shepherds of Good Hope shelter, shared his experience. Once a homeowner, he lived a comfortable life until a sudden mental health crisis and struggles with alcohol led to his eviction from a retirement home outside Ottawa.
“I’ve owned a condo, a house, and lived well until about two weeks ago,” Nagy said. Now, he understands how quickly people can "slip through the cracks." He hopes more people recognize the seriousness of the issue, especially for those who are underemployed or living in unstable conditions.
Government and Community Response
City officials believe the PIT survey will help shape policies and programs aimed at addressing homelessness. A notable statistic from the survey is that 43% of respondents were immigrants or refugees, and more than half of them had been in Canada for less than a year.
Rob Boyd, CEO of Ottawa Inner City Health, emphasizes that many people experiencing homelessness have complex health needs. While his organization didn’t participate in the survey, he considers the data crucial for understanding trends and guiding future action.
“These surveys help us track changes in homelessness and respond accordingly,” Boyd said. He stressed the urgent need for more housing options, along with healthcare services, to support people in reintegrating into communities.
The PIT Count is part of a larger national effort to measure homelessness across Canada. In Ottawa, it was conducted through a partnership between the city’s Housing and Homelessness Services and Indigenous Housing Partners, using both in-person interviews and surveys.
For people like Nagy, there is still hope. With a pension, he has been placed in transitional housing and is looking forward to securing a permanent residence.
“I just want to be in a proper retirement home,” he said. “At 69, I deserve that.”
