A recent report suggests Montreal should rethink its approach to homeless encampments and focus on housing solutions instead
The report, put together by community groups and health experts, is set to be released soon. It lays out 15 recommendations to tackle homelessness and get people into housing faster. One big takeaway? The city needs a more consistent approach to dealing with encampments.
According to the report, many committee members believe dismantling encampments should come to a halt. They want to see more action taken to house people this winter and provide support services for those living in tents.
Recently, advocates have been vocal about their concerns. They argue that the city’s crackdown on encampments is misguided, especially since shelters are already overwhelmed. With a cold snap hitting the city, shelters are bracing for even more pressure. To help, the city has opened extra warming centers.
James Hughes, who leads the Old Brewery Mission and was part of the committee, hopes this report will guide the city in addressing the crisis. He emphasizes that they don’t want the situation to worsen or for Montreal to be known for its homelessness issues.
In November, Quebec’s Transport Ministry issued eviction notices to people living in tents on Notre-Dame Street East. Community groups fear that others in similar situations might be next, prompting calls for a pause on dismantling encampments.
The report suggests the city should create a protocol to support those living in public spaces, assess the risks, and supervise encampments when needed. Unlike some other Canadian cities, Montreal lacks a clear policy for handling unsheltered individuals, leading to inconsistent responses across different boroughs.
Robert Beaudry, who’s in charge of tackling homelessness for the city, mentioned they’re working on a city-wide strategy as the report recommends. However, he insists that living in tents isn’t a safe solution and acknowledges that interventions do have consequences.
