Homelessness Outreach

Dignity, Human Rights and Housing

In Kawartha Lakes, we understand the unique challenges faced by those without a permanent home. We are dedicated to respecting the dignity and human rights of every individual experiencing homelessness in our community.

Being unhoused is not an identity, character flaw or moral failing of the person. It is a systemic and long standing societal issue. Housing is a human right.

Creating a unified and supportive community starts with all of us. We can engage in meaningful and respectful conversations as a community and with our unhoused neighbours, ensuring their voices, ideas and solutions are heard.

Did you know that the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan is based on several pillars that outline our commitment to maintaining an inclusive and secure municipality?

Challenging Myths and Bias

Individuals experiencing houselessness often experience discrimination and judgement. It is important to clarify some of the common misunderstandings that surround homelessness. Below are some common misconceptions:

Myth: Homelessness is a choice

This bias creates a narrative that all unhoused individuals refuse help and would rather be homeless. Poverty and a lack of affordable housing choices are a root cause of homelessness. Our Street Outreach Team is empathetic, housing-focused and trained to support every individual based on where they are at in their housing journey.

Myth: Unhoused individuals are a risk to public safety

Stigma is a term we must come to understand better. It is a label or stereotype that impacts another individual or a group of people. It can affect self-esteem, self-worth and homeless individuals have a high burden of stigma. Adopting a human rights approach would promote the well-being of all community members and challenge stigmatizing myths. A person being unhoused does not mean they are a threat or a danger.

Myth: Criminalization of homelessness is effective

Promoting criminalization only amplifies trauma, anxiety and barriers to those who are unhoused. This method can create additional difficulties for individuals to access housing, education or employment services.

Myth: The only solution to homelessness is to build more housing

Every person’s situation is unique. Offering appropriate and inclusive supports and resources, and building relationships with those who are unhoused can increase opportunities to connect people to housing they want and need. It should also be recognized that our community is facing an affordable housing crisis, and finding affordable housing is becoming increasingly difficult.

Our Outreach team is dedicated to this approach.

Winter Response to Homelessness

Out of the Cold Program

A Place Called Home (APCH) shelter provides emergency shelter services for the City of Kawartha Lakes and the County of Haliburton.

During the winter when temperatures are below -10°C, APCH temporarily increases shelter capacity to support those experiencing unsheltered homelessness. APCH offers Drop-in services for meals, washroom, shower and laundry to those experiencing homelessness as well as supportive housing-based case management.

Out of the Cold Program information or questions should be directed to APCH 24/7 at 705-328-0905 or toll free at 1-866-520-2689. Visit their webpage for information about how you can help or donate to those experiencing homelessness in our area this winter.

Unhoused and the heat

Warmer weather brings challenges for those who are unhoused.

People may take refuge, rest, or create temporary shelter in local places you may frequent as a Kawartha Lakes resident. It is not a crime to be unhoused.

If you are concerned about unhoused individuals in your area or community, please share the information so our Street Outreach team can connect and offer support.

During summer months, people who are unhoused may be more visible. It is important to show empathy and respect and actively support local organizations and raise community awareness around the facts, barriers and struggles those living in deep poverty face. Heat related illness is increased with exposure. Additional risk factors can include:

• An unhoused person will often walk in the extreme elements to access community supports, food and other essentials.
• Limited or no access to protection protective measures including sunscreen, shade or temperature controlled environments, such as those with air conditioning.
• Malnourishment and dehydration that can occur quickly and easily for unhoused persons.

Do not hesitate to call for emergency services if you feel someone needs assistance and is experiencing distress. Stay at the area, stay calm and call 9-1-1 and the Kawartha Lakes Paramedics Service will be there to help.

If you are concerned about someone in your area or community who may be unhoused, please share this information with our Street Outreach team. They will connect and support.

For more information about extreme heat, including signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and stroke, visit our extreme heat webpage. To discover where to beat the heat and keep cool, read the 'Stay Cool and Stay Safe' news item.