Advocates express deep sadness over lack of assistance for homeless encampment residents in Ontario city

The housing crisis in Canada has once again brought the issue of homeless encampments to the forefront, with residents of an encampment at Milligan’s Park in Barrie, Ont., facing eviction. The roughly 13 people living in the encampment were given 24 hours to pack up and move, but with no other options and having already moved the site previously, they found themselves looking into their legal options.

Christine Nayler, co-founder of Ryan’s Hope, reached out to the York Region Community Legal Clinic for assistance. Jeff Schlemmer, executive director of the legal clinic, highlighted that municipalities cannot remove people without providing them with adequate options, citing recent court decisions in other communities.

In response to a cease and desist letter from Schlemmer, the City of Barrie announced that they would not proceed with evictions due to the lack of available shelter space and recent court decisions. However, they are advising individuals when their actions are contrary to municipal bylaws.

Advocates like Nayler are calling for more long-term solutions to homelessness, such as providing access to garbage pickup, washroom facilities, and running water for those living in encampments. They emphasize the need for a community-wide effort to support those experiencing homelessness, rather than simply trying to move them from one location to the next.

The situation in Barrie reflects a broader issue playing out across the province, with other communities exploring innovative solutions like tiny house communities and rapid rehousing programs. Despite ongoing challenges, efforts are being made to address the housing crisis and provide permanent housing solutions for those in need.