Norfolk Council had a special meeting prior to Council-in-Committee today, to discuss the encampments in Simcoe, like the one at Talbot Gardens.
Staff highlighted to the council that preventing homelessness is a complex issue that Norfolk County has been prioritizing for some time. Although the problem has become more visible, many of the County’s success stories remain unseen. CAO Al Meneses pointed out that individuals who have been successfully helped often go unnoticed because they blend back into the community as neighbors or co-workers.
The homelessness challenges in Norfolk are complicated by several factors. First, individuals cannot be forced to accept assistance; they must choose it voluntarily. Additionally, recent judicial guidance indicates that forced eviction might violate the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, risking litigation against Norfolk. Finally, well-meaning members of the public sometimes complicate the issue or unintentionally discourage the use of existing assistance programs.
Norfolk County provides a range of daily services, including healthcare, social services, identification, financial aid, clothing, and food, all supported by provincial funding. Contrary to rumours, the County does not supply tents or furniture. Most individuals experiencing homelessness in Norfolk are local residents, with only about 10% being transient or passing through the county.
Below are some other statistics that were shared during the meeting:
- There are more than 100 people identified on the By Name List (BNL) that are at risk or experiencing homelessness. Actual numbers are likely greater.
- The Housing Wait List (CWL) has more that 400 individuals or families on it. It has increased by 60% in the past 5 years. Wait times range from 2-10 years.
- The one bedroom rental average is currently $1190/month, last year it was $882/month.
- There is only a 0.4% vacancy rate in Norfolk.
- In 2023/2024 the Housing and Homeless Prevention Team interacted with more than 15,000 households.
Following discussion, the council has instructed county staff to develop a plan detailing all the resources needed to house everyone listed on the BNL. Additionally, staff will create a business case outlining the efforts and investments made by the County and its partners. Mayor Amy Martin proposed the motion, clarifying that the aim is not to consider building county-funded assets.
Instead, the goal is to present a specific dollar amount to the province, demonstrating the immediate need for beds to address encampments and related concerns. The motion also added that council will engage MPP Brady to lobby the province to support rural municipalities on these provincial issues.
Those looking to assist are encouraged to support frontline agencies collaborating with Norfolk County, such as The Salvation Army, food banks, churches, and St. Vincent de Paul.
Written by Jeremy Hall
