BRUCE COUNTY – Bruce County’s human services department will be conducting a homelessness enumeration on Monday, Oct. 18, as part of the Ontario Ministry of Housing mandate.
This review will be a point-in-time count that provides a snapshot of the number of people experiencing homelessness in Bruce County. The enumeration also collects demographic information using a set of standard questions.
“The homelessness enumeration is a means to garner information about the number of people who are homeless, the services they currently use, and potential gaps in services,” said Christine MacDonald, director of human services. “This information will help Bruce County build a strong housing response system for vulnerable residents.”
The county thanks the volunteers and community organizations that will be assisting in the enumeration. These partners will identify homeless individuals and guide them through an anonymous survey.
Everyone counts. Bruce County wants to hear from those who are sleeping on the street, couch surfing, or temporarily housed. An anonymous survey is available at a number of key hub locations on Oct. 18. Volunteers will be available to answer questions and help connect people with available supports. The anonymous comments and information collected can help improve housing and homelessness services in Bruce County.
Warden Janice Jackson said, “Bruce County is committed to planning, delivering, and advocating for responsive services that help individuals and families enhance their level of participation and quality of life in our communities. Bruce County strives to provide accessible services that remove barriers and create opportunities.”
On Oct. 18, surveys will be available at Penetangore Hub (Kincardine), Lakeshore Hub (Port Elgin), Peninsula Hub (Wiarton), Salvation Army (Wiarton), The Meeting Place (Tobermory), and the Bruce County Administration Centre (Walkerton). Call 1-800-265-3022 to help identify your closest hub.
