There is a risk to immediately accepting any recommendations regarding the number of beds in the system, as the number presented is contingent upon implementation of fulsome diversion strategies, an evaluation of the built form and potential capital investments, and understanding of comprehensive data. Further analysis of the level of demand is required.

As the COVID pandemic unfolded, there was a considerable amount of media attention directed towards preventing a strain on the healthcare system. Around the world, many hospitals were overwhelmed by the number of positive cases requiring intensive health supports. As illustrated by the chart below from OrgCode, housing residents saves the healthcare system a considerable amount of money. The solution to homelessness is a home. Capital investments into permanent housing solutions improve the quality of life for residents and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. As the pandemic continues, this becomes a more critical consideration for the system as a whole. While it is important to stabilize the emergency shelters and assist them to deliver services according to best practices, the ultimate goal should be to avoid a shelter stay to begin with, and move people into appropriate housing as quickly as possible.

Source: OrgCode

The 2020 Approved 8-Year Capital Budget does not include any funding specifically related to Emergency Shelters. In the event that capital funding is required in the near future, and no Provincial or Federal capital funding is available, then a reallocation of funding in future capital budgets may be required.