The report on the first-ever count is being released this morning at city hall.
This number represents the minimum number of people experiencing homelessness in St. John’s on one day and is just the tip of the iceberg, End Homelessness said in a news release.
EHSJ estimates about 800 people experience homelessness in St. John’s.
The count also allowed an opportunity for those experiencing homelessness to share their stories. Of the 166 people enumerated on Nov. 30, 84 (50.6 per cent) participated in the survey. Their responses provided information about the demographics and service needs of this population.
The organization says the count confirms most people experiencing homelessness want housing but they encounter barriers obtaining it – including, but not limited to, low income and high rental rates.
Most surveyed cited the need for support services to address the challenges they face.
“The count reinforces the work we are doing as we implement our 2014-2019 Community Plan to End Homelessness in St. John’s,” EHSJ chairman Shawn Skinner said in a news release. “It supports our plan by providing information about the demographics of our local homeless population as well as insight into the factors that cause and perpetuate their homelessness. Our findings underscore the fact that those experiencing homelessness want housing and appropriate supports. When these critical needs are met, those who once experienced homelessness can thrive.”
