Number of people homeless or at risk up substantially in parts of eastern Nova Scotia
The issue of homelessness in eastern Nova Scotia has become a growing concern over the past few years, with a recent study revealing a significant increase in the number of individuals and families in need of housing assistance. The study, conducted by several community organizations in Antigonish and Guysborough counties, as well as all five municipalities on Cape Breton Island, in collaboration with Cape Breton University, found a 72 per cent rise in homelessness since 2021. This increase included 719 adults and 174 children who were in need of help with housing.
Catherine Leviten-Reid, a professor at CBU and member of the Affordable Housing and Homelessness Working Group, expressed surprise at the magnitude of the increase, despite the recent efforts to address the issue, such as the opening of new Pallet shelter villages and the full occupancy of homeless shelters in downtown Sydney. The study defined homelessness as encompassing individuals without shelter, those in emergency shelters or temporary housing, individuals released from institutions with nowhere to go, and those at risk due to financial instability or inadequate housing.
The study revealed an increase in all categories of homelessness, with the most significant rise seen in individuals at risk of homelessness, followed by those living without shelter in cars or tents. Various factors were attributed to the increase, including the high demand for rental units, the impact of the pandemic, and rising inflation rates. The working group has been advocating for more affordable housing, increased financial aid for low-income individuals, and additional funding for support organizations to assist with housing solutions since 2015.
Leviten-Reid emphasized the need for more supportive housing options, particularly for individuals struggling with substance use or mental illness. Projects like Eleanor’s Court, a 25-unit building under construction in downtown Sydney, aim to provide 24-hour support services, including financial assistance and health care. However, Leviten-Reid stressed that more projects like these are necessary, with at least 10 similar initiatives needed in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality alone.
While recent federal funding for affordable housing and increased income support from the Nova Scotia government have been welcomed, Leviten-Reid noted that these measures are not sufficient to address the homelessness crisis. Alyce MacLean, director of properties and development at New Dawn Enterprises, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to tackling homelessness. New Dawn and the Ally Centre have been working on projects like supportive housing and Pallet shelters to provide immediate relief, but MacLean stressed the importance of preventative measures to curb homelessness.
Despite the challenges posed by the increasing homelessness rates, community organizations and government agencies are committed to finding long-term solutions to address the issue. By working together to provide affordable housing, support services, and preventative measures, they aim to create a more inclusive and supportive community for all residents in eastern Nova Scotia.
