Ontario Town Aims to End Homelessness by 2027

In St. Thomas, Ont., Sara Pepper, once homeless and unsupported, now benefits from a town initiative aiming to eliminate chronic homelessness within two years. The city, facing a housing shortage and an opioid crisis, has implemented a plan inspired by the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, increasing shelter spaces and transitioning individuals to supportive housing. Mayor Joe Preston expresses optimism as the city has already reduced chronic homelessness by 30%. With new projects underway, St. Thomas is on track to achieve a “functional” end to homelessness by 2027.