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High Number of Homeless Individuals in the Town of Hawkesbury
As of February 1, a concerning trend has emerged in the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) with regards to homelessness. Out of the 44 identified homeless individuals in the area, a staggering 21 were found to be residing in the Town of Hawkesbury. This high concentration of homeless individuals in one municipality highlights the pressing issue of homelessness in the region.
Varying Numbers of Homeless Individuals Across UCPR Municipalities
While the Town of Hawkesbury had the highest number of homeless individuals, the other seven UCPR municipalities also reported homeless populations. According to UCPR Housing Stability Coordinator Nadia Séguin, six individuals were identified as homeless in Russell Township, four in Champlain Township, and three in Alfred and Plantagenet. Additionally, there were two homeless individuals in Casselman, and one each in The Nation and East Hawkesbury. It is evident that homelessness is a prevalent issue across various areas within Prescott and Russell.
Demographics of Homeless Population
Of the 44 identified homeless individuals, 30 were adults, while 11 families with children and three homeless youth between the ages of 16 and 25 were also included in the count. This diverse demographic highlights the complexity of homelessness and the need for tailored solutions to support individuals and families experiencing housing instability.
Sources of Income for Homeless Individuals
The Department of Social Services reported that homeless individuals in Prescott-Russell rely on various sources of income to sustain themselves. Sixteen individuals receive income from the Ontario Disability Support Program, 14 from Ontario Works (welfare), and four from the Canada Pension Plan. Additionally, three individuals have full-time jobs, one has a part-time job, one receives Employment Insurance benefits, and one receives assistance from another agency. It is clear that financial support is crucial for homeless individuals to access basic necessities.
Barriers to Permanent Housing
Homeless individuals in Prescott-Russell face a range of barriers that prevent them from securing permanent housing. Housing issues were identified as the primary barrier by 20 individuals, followed by family difficulties cited by 15 individuals. Legal issues, interpersonal issues, and financial challenges were also identified as barriers to accessing stable housing. These barriers underscore the need for comprehensive support services for homeless individuals.
Overall, the high number of homeless individuals in the Town of Hawkesbury and across UCPR municipalities highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address homelessness in the region. By understanding the demographics, income sources, and barriers faced by homeless individuals, stakeholders can work towards implementing sustainable solutions to support vulnerable populations.
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