Ending Veteran Homelessness: The Impact of Community Housing
Last week, we remembered those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. On Remembrance Day 2021, ONPHA members, partners, and staff who were gathered at the virtual ONPHA Conference paused our programming and joined in with Canadians across the country for a special time of remembrance.
Our sector has a strong connection to Remembrance Day – not only because of the veterans who work in community housing and those who are a part of our tenant communities, but also because housing is one of the keys to ensuring these brave men and women are supported.
Veterans put their lives on the line for us. But when they return home, they aren’t always met with the right supports. Sadly, for many, there is no home to return to.
It’s estimated that between 3,000 and 5,000 homeless veterans live on the streets of Canada, according to the ESDC. The circumstances that lead to veteran homelessness can be driven by many issues – from post-traumatic stress disorders, to financial challenges, to failures with the system.
As we continue our reflections from Remembrance Day and look ahead to National Housing Week, we’re exploring the role our sector plays in supporting and honouring our veterans.
The community housing sector is taking action to help solve a housing crisis that has left so many – including our veterans – behind.
Watch this special video presentation to hear more about the impacts of veteran homelessness, and how ONPHA members are using innovation to bring housing and supports to those who bravely served their country.
