In a heated response to remarks made by Ontario Premier Doug Ford regarding the homeless population, the Ottawa Mission's CEO, Peter Tilley, expressed deep concern for the challenges faced by those living in encampments. Ford incited backlash this week by suggesting that "healthy" individuals without homes should “get off their A-S-S and start working,” after a question about long waitlists for affordable housing.

Tilley asserted that many individuals experiencing homelessness are not in a position to seek employment due to mental health struggles and addiction issues, often rooted in previous traumas. "The reality on the ground is much more complicated than simply telling people to get jobs," Tilley remarked. He suggested that the premier would benefit from interacting with those in need directly, stating, “I think he needs to go serve a few more meals, perhaps sit at the dining tables of some of the people and go meet with some of the people in encampments.”

The growing crisis of homelessness is evident, with the Ottawa Mission experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand for services. The shelter reported providing over 1.1 million meals last year, a stark increase from just under half a million meals served before the COVID-19 pandemic. Tilley described the current climate as "draining," underlining the continuous strain on staff and volunteers amidst rising homelessness, food insecurity, and mental health concerns.

Highlighting the influence of the ongoing opioid crisis, Tilley pointed to the recent overwhelming need for mental health interventions and noted that, as of October 2023, a significant 61% of the shelter's population comprises asylum seekers. This demographic shift has exacerbated existing challenges, further stretching resources and increasing demand for essential services.

The pressing need for a cohesive strategy to address these challenges has seen municipalities like Ottawa call on the provincial government for greater support in providing housing and healthcare for the unhoused. Ontario’s Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister, Paul Calandra, defended the provincial efforts, stating that the government is investing $700 million annually in community and supportive housing, with over $240 million allocated for shelter and homelessness support in cities like Toronto and Ottawa.

As the cold months approach and the struggle for shelter intensifies, the urgency for a compassionate and effective response to homelessness continues to grow. The Ottawa Mission is calling for more systemic support to ensure that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can access the resources they need to regain stability and dignity in their lives.