Saint John Confronts Growing Homelessness Crisis as Winter Nears

Saint John Grapples with Increased Homelessness

The city of Saint John is facing a sharp rise in homelessness, prompting concern from city council as colder temperatures set in. At Monday’s council meeting, officials reviewed updates on the city’s strategy to reduce homelessness, revealing that the situation has worsened since the last report in July.

Chronic Homelessness Reaches Record High

According to the Human Development Council, 304 individuals were classified as experiencing chronic homelessness in Saint John in August, up from 280 in July. Chronic homelessness, as defined by the council, describes people who have been without stable housing for at least six months within a year. This figure represents the highest number recorded since data collection began in July 2023.

Council Voices Concern and Support

Councillor Eric Savoie praised the city staff’s ongoing efforts in addressing homelessness but cautioned against complacency. "We are seeing significant increases in chronic homelessness," Savoie said, stressing that progress in supportive housing and affordable housing must continue. Savoie questioned if local resources could meet the growing demand, highlighting concerns about capacity following city staff reports.

Managing Resources and Preparing for Winter

Lisa Kennedy, director of external relations, noted that staff are in communication with provincial officials on the issue, though specific details were not disclosed. Greg Cutler, community development manager, expressed a "cautious optimism" that the city could respond to the community’s needs before winter conditions become severe. He emphasized efforts to act preemptively to avoid greater challenges once winter fully arrives.

Encampments and Transition Housing Initiatives

Saint John has implemented a plan to prohibit homeless encampments in designated city areas called “red zones,” which encompass much of the downtown core. The number of encampments in these areas dropped from 25 last September to six currently, according to a city staff report.

As part of its approach, the city also launched two transition homes, or "green zone" sites, on Egbert Street and Thorne Avenue, totaling 66 units. Of these, 48 are currently occupied. Initially managed by the city, these sites are now under the oversight of the provincial government. Thorne Avenue's site was expanded earlier in the year.

City Partnerships and Outreach Expansion

The council recently approved a 90-day extension for homeless outreach and support services in partnership with local non-profit Fresh Start Services. This organization will maintain direct engagement with homeless individuals, facilitate dignified moves from "red zones," and help connect people to shelter and resources. Fresh Start operates a 60-bed shelter on Rothesay Avenue, expecting around 200 people nightly as temperatures drop. The building also serves as a drop-in location for those seeking warmth at night.

Executive director Melanie Vautour expressed hope that upcoming housing developments, such as the approved tiny home project, would provide more options before winter. However, some council members, including Bryan Wyatt, argued for longer-term continuity in support services, warning against the risks of short-term solutions as winter approaches.

Homelessness Across the Province

The rise in homelessness is not unique to Saint John. The Human Development Council reported that in August, 551 individuals were homeless for at least one day across New Brunswick’s three major cities. The continued growth of winter homelessness highlights the urgent need for collaborative solutions at both the municipal and provincial levels.

Source: cbc.ca.