This is a petition in support of the proposed shelter for 2950 & 2970 Lake Shore Blvd. West, Etobicoke, ON.

Homelessness is an issue that is affecting many in Toronto. It appears to be increasing due to the loss of jobs during this COVID-19 pandemic. The cost of living in Toronto is an ongoing issue, and the need for low-income housing also appears to be increasing. 

Our neighbours to the south, in the United States, are also experiencing an increase in homelessness. Sadly, in many areas, especially small towns and rural areas, "tent cities" are popping up, and those areas are not sanitary, and are not sustainable. According to the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC) in the USA,  "tent cities" should not be dismantled during COVID-19 to reduce the risk of transmission. However, physical buildings are safer than tents. So while, the minimum public health recommendation is to allow "tent cities," a building is even better.

If you drive around Toronto, you will also see tents popping up in wooded areas, under bridges, and in high-density areas. We see this happening, and we know something has to be done about it. The best alternative to the growing problem of "tent cities" in Etobicoke is a homeless shelter supported by our municipality in collaboration with social service agencies. Caring citizens of Etobicoke want shelters, instead of tents, for the health, wellness, and safety of both the homeless who need shelter, and the residents of the area. 

"Housing First" methods and programs are increasingly being used by homeless shelters, social service agencies, and municipalities across North America. The primary goal of this method is to first place houseless people into stable shelter, and then provide the necessary services that support these individuals in a safe, research-based, sustainable manner. 

The proposed shelter in South Etobicoke would be a safe way to help individuals stay off the street, and work towards stability, sustainability, and a hopeful future. With any social service, it is important to meet the needs of the people where they are. The specific location on Lake Shore Blvd West is necessary because that is where the homeless population has a greater need of services. 

Please join us in signing this petition to support the proposed shelter for 2950 & 2970 Lake Shore Blvd. West, Etobicoke, ON. 

Ryan Wallace, JD, MSA 

Christine Wallace, MSA

For more information on evidence-based homeless methods, please visit these sites: 

1. https://www.camh.ca/en/camh-news-and-stories/camh-and-st-michael-study-on-homelessness

2. https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/homelessness/resources/housing-first.html

3. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-homeless-housing-finland-munk-1.4957407

4. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/homeless-shelters/unsheltered-homelessness.html