Creating a secure and supported community…

Social housing and social services have long been burdened with misinformation and negative stereotypes. However, by destigmatizing them, it is possible to establish more comprehensive and inclusive housing developments that cater to the requirements of all residents, regardless of their age or abilities.

The City of Toronto can use sleeping pods, modular housing, and micro-homes as rapid, supported housing options for individuals experiencing homelessness or abuse. As a result, it will establish public services that are sensitive to the complex realities of individuals' lives while also objectively addressing everyone's need to be heard, understood, and cared for in order to feel secure. Some benefits include:

1. Increased Capacity and Social Integration

   Toronto's traditional shelter systems have limited capacity, but the city can provide safe housing to more people by introducing rapid shelters like sleeping pods and modular housing. These options can help individuals transition from trauma by providing a stable foundation to access education, employment, and other resources needed to improve mental health outcomes, reestablish a sense of community, autonomy, and dignity.

   
   
   

2. Increased Flexibility and Cost-Effective

   Sleeping pods and modular housing are more effective alternatives to inadequately planned shelters and warming centers for individuals who require privacy and protection in public view. These options are economical alternatives that can be conveniently installed in unused buildings, parking lots, and unoccupied land, providing a sense of security for individuals while other housing projects are being completed.

   
   

   
   

3. Improved Health Outcomes with Privacy and Dignity

   Homelessness is linked to various health issues like chronic diseases, mental health problems, and substance abuse disorders. Ensuring secure and stable housing can enhance the health outcomes of people facing homelessness or abuse. Modular and micro- homes offer more privacy and respect for people in such situations. They provide a personal space that can raise their self-esteem and improve their mental health.

   
   

…by borrowing from the best cities in the world

The 'Housing First' Policy

The "Housing First" policy aims to provide adequate shelter for every resident of Toronto, regardless of their income and disability status. It prioritizes the construction of safe shelters and homes with supportive services to end homelessness, and has been used as a public health and safety intervention globally.

1. Finland is often cited as a global leader in Housing First policies. Since implementing the approach in the early 2000s, the country has seen a significant reduction in homelessness, with the number of people experiencing long-term homelessness falling by over 35% between 2010 and 2018.

   
   

2. Salt Lake City, Utah implemented a Housing First policy in 2005 and has since reduced homelessness by 91%. The city's strategy includes providing permanent supportive housing to people experiencing chronic homelessness, along with access to healthcare, employment services, and other support.

   
   

3. Bergen County, New Jersey implemented a Housing First policy in 2017 and has since effectively ended chronic homelessness among veterans and individuals experiencing long-term homelessness. The county's strategy involves providing permanent supportive housing to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, along with wraparound services like healthcare, mental health services, and employment assistance.

Harm Reduction and Rehabilitation

There are various ways to approach harm reduction, but the overall objective is typically to mitigate drug-related risks such as HIV and hepatitis transmission and overdose. 

Toronto could borrow similar approaches from:

1. Portugal became the first country in the world to decriminalize the possession and use of all drugs, including heroin and cocaine. Since then, the country has shifted its focus from punishing drug users to treating drug addiction as a public health issue. The country has implemented a harm reduction approach that emphasizes prevention, treatment, and social reintegration, and has seen significant decreases in drug-related deaths, HIV infections, and drug-related crime.

   
   

2. Switzerland is known for its innovative harm reduction strategies, which include supervised injection sites, heroin-assisted treatment, and needle exchange programs. These programs have been effective in reducing drug-related deaths and infections, and have helped to improve the health and well-being of people who use drugs.

   
   

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam is known for its progressive drug policies, including the tolerance of cannabis use and the provision of needle exchange programs and other harm reduction services. These policies have been effective in reducing drug-related harms and improving public health outcomes.

Addressing the cycle of homelessness is crucial to prevent people from becoming vulnerable to financial scams, human trafficking, and drug addiction, which can result in long-term abuse and exploitation.

Effective methods used in reducing harm and aiding recovery can lead to the formation of stronger communities that are better equipped to address persistent issues such as homelessness among an aging population, homeless veterans, individuals with disabilities, and victims of violence. Ultimately, this approach can promote social justice for everyone.