Guidance for providers of services for people experiencing homelessness (in the context of COVID-19)

Abstract

Homelessness in the context of COVID-19: The following recommendations are for the providers of services for people experiencing homelessness (including overnight emergency shelters, day shelters, and meal service providers). This guidance is based on the Canadian context and public health assumptions that reflect the currently available scientific evidence and expert opinion. This guidance is subject to change as new information on transmissibility and epidemiology becomes available. It should be read in conjunction with relevant provincial/territorial and local legislation, regulations and policies. Homelessness is often the result of the interaction between structural factors, insufficient services, and individual circumstances. Many people experiencing, or at risk of experiencing homelessness rely on community-based organizations, non-profit and voluntary organizations for a range of essential services. Marginalized and vulnerable groups, including Indigenous community members, individuals identifying as LGBTQ2S+, and youth, are disproportionately represented among those experiencing homelessness. While men comprise almost three quarters of the share of Canadians experiencing homelessness, women's experience of homelessness tends to be "hidden", living temporarily with family, friends or in their car because they have nowhere else to live. Evidence shows that women are most likely to be the head of the families staying in shelters.