Winnipeg struggles with housing for encampment residents

City Clears 12 Encampments Since November

Since the new protocols began in November, city staff have cleared 12 encampments. However, finding housing or shelter for those affected remains a “key struggle,” councillors learned on Friday.

Encampment Response Protocol Details

Winnipeg’s encampment response protocol started on November 17. It involves enforcement officers, Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic Service staff, outreach organizations, and other groups. Their goal is to clear encampments and connect people to housing and support.

Inspection and Enforcement Actions

Since the protocol’s implementation, the city has inspected 72 sites. Enforcement officers have posted 117 signs warning of bylaw violations. Greg MacPherson, the city’s acting manager of community development, informed councillors that they are monitoring many sites and working with outreach teams to find housing for residents.

Garbage Cleanup and Relocation Efforts

In addition to the 12 cleared encampments, garbage cleanup efforts have been sent to 30 locations. A city spokesperson stated that the locations of cleared encampments will not be published.

Challenges in Finding Housing

Kalen Qually, a communications officer, mentioned that they do not have a count of relocated individuals. They rely on partners to connect people with services and housing. MacPherson noted that clearing sites involves informing residents of bylaw violations, connecting them with support, and cleaning the areas.

Housing Shortage Issues

MacPherson stated, “We could do more if we had more access to space.” He emphasized that finding housing options for encampment residents remains a challenge due to a housing shortage. He added that shelter spaces are also limited.

Government Commitment to Housing

Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith reported that 156 people have been housed through the Your Way Home strategy as of December 31. She acknowledged that housing is a challenge nationwide and affirmed the government’s commitment to increasing housing supply.

Bylaw Officers and Shelter Space

Currently, three bylaw officers are working on the encampment protocol. This number may increase as the weather warms. In September, city council voted to ban encampments in various locations, including transit shelters and playgrounds.

Concerns from Community Leaders

Community services committee chair Coun. Vivian Santos noted that shelters in her ward are facing space issues, worsened by cold temperatures. She stated, “I think shelters are doing the best that they can with a complex issue.”

Success in Housing Individuals

Marion Willis, who leads St. Boniface Street Links, said city staff have connected around half a dozen people to housing since the strategy began. She mentioned that they accessed housing through the private market and had no issues finding spots.

Provincial Housing Efforts

Smith reported that the province has restored 2,024 Manitoba Housing units needing repairs and purchased about 300 transitional housing units. Currently, around 100 of those units are occupied, while the rest are under repair.

Summary of Key Facts