Media Release
City returns to pre-protocol enforcement of camping bylaws effective today
HAMILTON, ON – Starting today, the City of Hamilton will be returning to pre-protocol enforcement of City by-laws that prohibit camping on City property, including park areas.
On August 9, 2021, City Council voted in favor of repealing the by-law enforcement protocol that permitted some individuals to camp in public spaces for up to 14 days.
The enforcement approach going forward will continue take into consideration the safety and well-being of individuals living outdoors, as well as the broader community needs, including access to green space for safe outdoor recreation. The approach includes a continued commitment to helping those who are unsheltered find safe options while enforcing its by-laws prohibiting camping on public property.
The City remains focused on continuing to support homeless individuals in securing safe and affordable housing, by taking an individualized approach to connect those experiencing homelessness with the available community resources and supports, including the variety of options available through the City’s housing continuum.
The City’s Encampment Response Team works on a daily basis to engage individuals experiencing homelessness to offer shelter or other available space, and work with them to find safe and supportive housing options. Shelter space is offered whenever possible, and staff continue to engage with individuals who are unsheltered to offer support, explore accommodation options, and work to address any barriers. The Encampment Response Team includes representatives from the City of Hamilton Housing Services Division (including Street Outreach Team), Municipal Law Enforcement, Public Works, Hamilton Police Services Social Navigator Program and social service agencies which support those experiencing a housing crisis.
Staff are planning to bring a report to the September 9 Emergency & Community Services Committee that will provide more details on the City’s response moving forward.
For more information about the City’s encampment response, visit www.hamilton.ca/social-services/housing/city-hamilton-encampment-response.
For general inquiries about encampments, protocols, or to report an encampment or parks by-law violation, email [email protected] or call 905-546-CITY (2489).
Quick Facts
- From January 2020 to June 2021, in collaboration with our community partners, the Housing Services Division has helped approximately 440 homeless individuals and families find permanent housing solutions.
- In 2020 over 700 households from Hamilton’s Access to Housing (ATH) wait list were housed in rent-geared to income units, in the private market using portable housing benefits, and from intensive case management and Rapid Rehousing programs. In 2019, approximately 595 households were permanently housed from the ATH wait list.
- Hamilton’s housing system receives contributions from all levels of government and invests approximately $120 million annually into the housing and homelessness system, including a $64 million municipal contribution in 2021.
- Since the beginning of the pandemic through the Government of Ontario’s Social Service Relief funds, the City directed $37 million into the housing and homelessness system response ensuring shelter operators could enact important COVID-19 protocols to reduce the risk of transmission for shelter clients and staff. These funds also ensured community drop-in programs could expand and maintain services for vulnerable residents from meals, showers, harm reduction supplies, and overnight access drop-in services.
Additional Resources
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People & Programs
Healthy & Safe Communities
Housing & Homelessness
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