Manitoba Launches Plan to End Chronic Homelessness

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew announced a new initiative to address chronic homelessness by relocating residents from encampments into safe housing, starting with the acquisition of over 300 social housing units. The plan includes a 30-day transition period for residents, during which outreach teams will assess needs and secure housing before decommissioning encampments. Kinew emphasized the necessity of providing wraparound support services, including mental health and addiction assistance, to help residents maintain stable housing. The program, named Your Way Home, aims to move approximately 700 individuals currently living in encampments into permanent housing over the next two years with an investment of $20 million. Despite the positive steps, some advocates argue that more housing units are needed to effectively address the issue. The initiative reflects a collaborative effort between provincial and municipal governments to ensure public spaces are safe and accessible for all citizens.