A new homeless encampment in Ajax, Ontario, has drawn attention to the growing shelter shortage in Durham Region. The encampment, set up on October 17 after several surrounding tents were cleared, is a response to the region’s lack of available indoor shelter space. Durham officials stated that while they do not endorse encampments, they recognize they occur when shelters are full. As of August, over 1,000 people were on the region’s by-name list for housing support, though the actual homeless population may be even larger.
Shelters in Ajax and Whitby, which have added spaces in recent years, are now at full capacity, leaving many without housing. The region’s homelessness trend has been increasing for years, fueled by economic challenges and a lack of affordable housing. Community advocates emphasize the need for more shelter spaces and long-term housing solutions, which will require a coordinated effort from all levels of government.
Ajax’s deputy mayor, Sterling Lee, expressed frustration over the region’s lack of consultation with the town before providing services at the encampment site. Despite this, the region has found housing for five of the 25 encampment residents and is working to move others into permanent accommodations.
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