Researchers caution that the current official data significantly underestimates the prevalence of Homelessness nationwide, as this societal issue extends beyond major urban centers and permeates into smaller communities.
According to a recently published survey in September, there has been a shift in the distribution of homeless individuals in Quebec. Historically, the majority of homeless people were concentrated in Montreal; however, the report reveals that currently, half of the homeless population can be located in rural areas of the eastern province.
Danny Brodeur-Cote has resided for an extended duration within an improvised encampment situated in wooded areas adjacent to a cemetery in Granby, a municipality Housing approximately 70,000 residents, positioned 80 kilometers (50 miles) east of Montreal. This situation arose subsequent to his eviction from a rented residence he shared with his girlfriend in June.
The janitor, characterized by disheveled brown hair, informed AFP that he engages in employment for a duration of five days every week, while simultaneously wheeling a shopping cart towards the campsite.
At the age of 39, the individual is currently experiencing homelessness for the first time in his existence. According to his statement, the available housing options are scarce and too costly.
Located a short distance away, a park has undergone a conversion into a temporary encampment accommodating individuals of various genders and age groups, including individuals who are gainfully employed, such as Brodeur-Cote.
According to a survey released by the Quebec government, around 25% of individuals experiencing homelessness had been displaced as a result of eviction from their previous housing arrangements.
According to Karine Lussier, the director of a local anti-poverty organization, there is a pressing need for a minimum of 1,000 affordable housing units in the Granby area.
From 2018 to 2022, there was a notable 44 percent rise in the population of individuals experiencing homelessness in the province of Quebec, resulting in a total of 10,000 individuals in the preceding year. According to Lussier, Indigenous individuals, comprising approximately five percent of the Canadian population, have a disproportionate presence among the homeless population, with the Inuit community being particularly affected.
According to Mayor Julie Bourdon, there was no observable presence of homelessness in Granby three years ago. However, she acknowledges that the cost of renting accommodations has significantly increased in comparison to the situation two years ago.
Instead of destroying the camps and removing the occupants, the city made the decision to keep what it refers to as "places of tolerance."
According to France Belisle, the mayor of Gatineau, a municipality with a population of around 300,000 residents located adjacent to the capital city of Ottawa, the current scenario may only represent a fraction of the overall issue, as the data being referenced is based on information collected one year ago.
Given the escalating cost of living and rapid inflation experienced this year, she harbors concerns that the situation may be even more dire than what is currently shown by recent statistical data.
According to her, individuals are currently facing challenges in meeting their financial obligations.
The province of Quebec, which ranks as the second most populated in Canada, is currently confronted with a significant housing shortage. This predicament can be attributed to various factors, including the ongoing pandemic and a notable increase in immigration, which has led to a surge in population figures and therefore heightened demand for homes.
In recent months, there has been a significant increase in public discourse surrounding real estate prices, leading to heightened attention from governments on addressing housing affordability and cost of living issues.
Quebec is not the alone entity grappling with this predicament, as experts caution that homelessness is escalating throughout Canada.
According to the estimations provided by government statistics, the number of homeless individuals in the country is approximately 235,000. However, it is important to note that this figure solely accounts for individuals who seek shelter services. Cheryl Forchuk, a professor at the University of Western Ontario, shares concerns similar to those of Belisle, as she believes that the actual situation may be even more severe.
The number is being significantly underestimated by a huge extent... According to her statement, it is likely that the present federal projections might be increased threefold.
In September, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged the current predicament wherein individuals of higher socioeconomic status are also encountering challenges in accessing suitable homes.
The leader of Quebec, Francois Legault, characterized the situation as an ideal convergence of circumstances.
The individual recently asserted that this dilemma is seen unacceptable inside a society that is characterized by its wealth and modernity.
According to Lussier, it is highly challenging to transition from homelessness without external assistance.
The collective sentiment of our group is one of profound indignation, sorrow, and frustration, as we have consistently voiced our concerns over the imminent progression towards a state of humanitarian disaster.
Brodeur-Cote remains optimistic in his pursuit of obtaining reasonably cost lodging, and in the meanwhile, he persists in the practice of bathing in a local river on a daily basis prior to commencing his work responsibilities.
The individual asserts that, with the exception of a singular occasion three months prior, they had refrained from seeking financial assistance from their parents. However, they express uncertainty regarding the forthcoming winter months and the potential challenges that may arise.
