In an effort to generate some fresh ideas to tackle London's homelessness and housing instability problem, the city's Homeless Prevention Team is turning to the greater London community.
The team is planning a community meeting on the issue from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on January 29 at the Stevenson Hunt meeting room in the Central Library on Dundas Street. It is hoping to have a broad discussion with Londoners that will result in ideas toward ending homelessness and housing instability.
“Homelessness and housing is a complex community issue that requires a community response,” London's Manger of Homeless Prevention and Housing Craig Cooper said in a statement. “This community meeting is an opportunity for our team to engage with residents and organizations to talk about their ideas and how the services they may already be providing can support more individuals in our community.”
It is hoped the meeting will connect both area residents with community organizations to identify "important gaps in the system and existing supports that could possibly help fill these gaps." Food security is among the gaps that will be discussed.
"Food security is a real concern but we know a lot of faith-based organizations are already doing an excellent service to the community by providing meals. We’re hoping this meeting will present an opportunity to work collaboratively with groups to expand their reach in our community," said Cooper.
The team also plans to go over the city’s homeless prevention and housing model, in addition to upcoming initiatives like Housing Stability Week, Coordinated Informed Response and the Coordinated Access Centre. According to team officials, they have been working with individuals with lived experience to identify challenges and provide input on effective actions to help improve housing stability in London.
Those interested in attending the community meeting are asked to RSVP to homelessprevention@london.ca by January 25.