Homelessness is one of the most complex and emotionally charged challenges you will face as a member of council. It is more than a housing issue—it touches on mental health, addiction, poverty, and the capacity of our social support systems. Left unaddressed, it becomes a deeply divisive issue that tears at the social fabric of our community, fostering frustration, fear, and mistrust among residents. But despite its complexity, homelessness is not an unsolvable problem. Across Canada and around the world, communities similar to Owen Sound have made real progress by adopting evidence-based approaches and proven models. The key is not to reinvent the wheel, but to learn from those successes—whether it’s supportive housing, Housing First strategies, or integrated service hubs. Owen Sound doesn’t need to develop its own isolated solution from scratch. We need leadership that is willing to research, collaborate, and act decisively. By adopting strategies that have already worked elsewhere and adapting them to our local context, we can deliver real results—reducing homelessness, improving quality of life, and restoring confidence in local government’s ability to solve urgent problems.

As a candidate for council you will need to research this issue and be prepared to answer questions on how you will address this if elected to Owen Sound Council.  Here are a few links to begin that research. You will see some similarities with issues already raised by advocates and proponents in Owen Sound.

Homeless people in Charlottetown back to tents after emergency shelter closes

Mobile housing units in Charlottetown parking lot for homeless

Controversial Charlottetown homeless program moves, some worry issues will follow

Mounting debris at homeless encampment a 'daily' concern for fire department, chief says

Not enough data about homelessness in small communities, researchers say

New home for controversial P.E.I. homelessness support program set to open Saturday

Community members rally in support of people living in Charlottetown encampment

Charlottetown emergency housing shelter close to ready, but MLA wants help now

Charlottetown council's emergency shelter deferral 'mind-boggling', says minister

Little room at the shelters as winter looms on P.E.I.

P.E.I. neighbours rally against Community Outreach Centre, planned move

Break-ins, public drug use — Charlottetown residents looking for city to act

Last remaining occupants pack up as Charlottetown tent encampment dismantled

P.E.I. government gives affordable housing groups $7.5 million

Temporary housing for homeless people in Charlottetown delayed till end of month

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