Raymond Landry, co-ordinator of The Homelessness Network, said there is a real issue with affordable housing in Sudbury and it’s one that can’t be solved unless one of the two definitions are addressed.
In essence, offer more affordable housing or change the definition of the word ‘affordable.’
It also comes down to the mission of The Homelessness Network and that of the Canadian Government’s Housing Strategy: Housing First.
The Homelessness Network, with 18 staff and five outreach workers— as well as the workers from their partner organizations — are consistently checking in with vulnerable populations, letting them know about services available and handing out water, snacks, clothing and often bedding, as well as offering those experiencing homelessness assistance in finding affordable housing.
“Housing is a human right,” said Landry. “Our philosophy is that we can get them housing first and then resolve the other issues.”
He notes the length of waiting lists for help – for mental health, for addictions – and asks, “Do they have to live outside all that time” while awaiting services?
This is the principle of Housing First. Helping and supporting someone in need, regardless of their past or present traumas and helping them find a new life, simply by giving them a place to call home.
But principles are left to the burden of reality and though Housing First is an effective strategy, it first requires affordable housing.
The other options are not affordable at all.
In 2017, the Auditor General of Ontario released a report on the cost of housing alternatives. While this list is somewhat out of date and without consideration of a pandemic, the numbers are startling:
Average cost of providing social housing to one household: $613 per month.
What about the second definition of affordable housing – changing the income?
The Ontario Disability Support Program and Ontario Works, the programs that most often support those who are unable to earn an income, do not reflect current requirements.
For instance, if you are a single person, your monthly Ontario Works benefit is $343 for basic needs, $390 for shelter costs, for a total of $733 per month. On disability, your benefit is $672 for basic needs and $497 for shelter, a monthly total of $1,169.
