‘Where do you want us to go?’ People living along Hamilton’s rail trail hide as city says they must leave

Hamilton couple Margaret de Jong and Calvin Graham found themselves in a difficult situation when they received a notice to leave their rail trail encampment in the city. With no other options available to them, they decided to camouflage their tent in the forested side of the escarpment to avoid being seen.

Living in a tent near the rail trail since the fall of 2023, de Jong and Graham have been facing challenges. De Jong, who is unhoused, has had her two children placed in foster care, which has been devastating for her. Despite their efforts to find alternative housing, including contacting women’s shelters and applying for a couple cabin at a new outdoor shelter, they have been unsuccessful.

The couple, along with other encampment residents and advocates, spoke out at a news conference organized by the Hamilton Encampment Support Network. They expressed their concerns about the lack of options for those living in encampments and the eviction notices that were issued by the city.

Hamilton police were present to assist with the cleanup of the area following the eviction notices. According to police spokesperson Jackie Penman, the city used large equipment to remove debris from the area, but no arrests or charges were made. The city did not provide specific details on how many people were impacted by the evictions or the current availability of shelter spaces.

One resident, Jeanguy Parent, expressed his frustration at being turned away from the outdoor shelter due to its prioritization of couples and those with pets. He, like many others, is on waitlists for affordable and supportive housing but has not been able to secure a spot. Parent is urging the city to provide more time for residents to find alternative housing solutions.

Advocate Gessie Stearns called on the city to come up with a better plan for addressing homelessness, criticizing the use of funds for temporary shelters instead of permanent housing solutions. She highlighted the need for a more compassionate approach to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness in the city.

The situation on the rail trail has raised concerns about the treatment of individuals living in encampments and the lack of adequate support for those facing housing insecurity. As the city continues to address these challenges, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being and dignity of all residents, ensuring that everyone has access to safe and secure housing.