Seniors should never be homeless
There is much attention paid to helping those who become homeless, but all too little attention given to preventing homelessness in the first place. About one quarter of all the […]
This story emphasizes the importance of preventing homelessness among seniors, rather than simply addressing the issue after it has occurred. Approximately 25% of individuals experiencing homelessness are seniors, according to the End Homelessness Winnipeg report. Ending chronic homelessness requires more than just mopping up the problem, as resources and organizations supporting seniors are fragmented and inadequately funded.
Seniors face unique challenges, such as financial difficulties due to increased living costs, loss of partners, scams, and the impact of the COVID pandemic. These factors can contribute to seniors becoming homeless. Manitoba now has a seniors' advocate, Leigh Anne Caron, who is tasked with recommending systemic changes, but she does not directly assist individual seniors.
To effectively support seniors at risk of homelessness, a dedicated helpline and local organizations in each area of Winnipeg, as well as outside of Winnipeg, are necessary. These organizations should collaborate and share information to address seniors' issues collectively. Experience from St. Boniface Street Links highlights the importance of helping seniors navigate the digital world, given that homelessness is now a city-wide issue.
Seniors may feel uncomfortable in central Winnipeg shelters and require support in their familiar communities. Preventing homelessness in seniors is more effective and cost-efficient than waiting until it happens. A report on preventing homelessness in seniors has been compiled by Nancy Chippendale and the author, and it has been released by Willard Reaves, leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party.
Collaboration and resource integration between municipalities, First Nations communities, provincial, and federal governments are essential to prevent senior homelessness in Manitoba. With winter approaching, urgent action is needed to address this unacceptable situation.
Written by urgent.news from Winnipeg Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
