Contextualization

Homelessness in First Nations communities is very different from homelessness in urban areas. A first portrait published by the FNQLHSSC in 2016 made it possible to shed light on the existence of various forms of homelessness within the communities and in particular the predominance of hidden homelessness. In order to understand how to better support people who are faced with this situation, it was necessary to expand knowledge. Discussion workshops were thus organized in the fall of 2019 and allowed for reaching approximately one hundred key players in the communities with varied knowledge and experience resulting from their work with people who are faced with homelessness or who are at risk of becoming homeless.

Values of mutual aid and solidarity at the heart of the communities

During these workshops, it was repeatedly observed that there is a lack of services for this vulnerable population. Because of the strong values of mutual aid and solidarity present in these communities, homeless individuals are generally taken care of by their families and friends, who ensure that their basic needs are met at least in part. These caregivers need to be better supported, and existing structures within the communities need to have the resources to meet the additional needs of this homeless population, thereby unburdening families. Another issue that was discussed is the lack of coordination with resources outside the communities, which prevents the development of an adequate multidisciplinary continuum of services for this highly mobile population.

Several potential solutions emerged from the workshops. For example, it was suggested that a wider variety of housing be made available, specifically to meet the needs of people living alone, couples and large families. It was also recommended that communities provide services geared toward developing the social skills of individuals at risk of homelessness. However, implementing these solutions would require a substantial investment of time and money on the part of the communities as well as their partners. It is also important to stress the importance of cultural safety, especially in circumstances in which individuals are living outside the community and in an environment where discrimination, racism, and judgemental attitudes are sometimes prevalent.

Finally, taking into account the possible consequences and better meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness and their families can only promote the wellness of First Nations individuals, families and communities.

Publication

Would you like to learn more on this subject? The FNQLHSSC recently published a document featuring the results of this consultation. Click here to access this document.