The City of St. Thomas is marking a significant achievement in its campaign against homelessness this Wednesday. According to officials, more individuals are now being transitioned out of homelessness than are becoming homeless for the first time. Data from the city reveals that approximately 79 individuals have been relocated to housing in 2026, while about 69 people have been identified as newly homeless.
St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston expressed, “This demonstrates that when a community unites with a shared strategy and empathy, we can alter the trajectory of challenging issues like homelessness. While there is still more work to be done, this progress indicates that we are on the right path, and the attainable eradication of homelessness in our community is drawing near.”
Over the past decade, St. Thomas has been implementing a plan to shift individuals off the streets and into housing, following the national Built For Zero program by the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness. The city has primarily collaborated with the province, federal government, community groups, and non-profits to increase shelter capacities and swiftly transition individuals from shelters to supportive housing equipped with services such as counseling and healthcare.
The official objective of the city is to effectively eliminate homelessness within its borders by 2027, and authorities highlighted that this latest milestone is a significant stride towards achieving that target.
The most recent statistics are derived from the by-name list maintained by St. Thomas-Elgin Social Services, which monitors local homelessness cases. The list has decreased to 86 individuals, indicating a 34% reduction year-over-year.
Danielle Neilson, acting director of St. Thomas-Elgin Social Services, stated that these figures represent numerous transformed lives. “Every individual who has been housed this year is a testament to collaborative efforts rather than working in isolation. I extend my gratitude to all frontline workers, volunteers, and agencies who have enabled this progress,” Neilson remarked.
Mayor Preston attributed the success in reaching their goals in St. Thomas to a shared vision. He emphasized the importance of having a council committed to addressing homelessness and prioritizing housing for unhoused individuals.
Acknowledging the community organizations’ contributions, including Indwell, YWCA, Sanctuary Homes, and Doug Tarry Homes, Preston expressed his appreciation. Recent developments in supportive and transitional housing in St. Thomas have included a 40-unit complex for seniors and young adults on Hiawatha St., a tiny homes neighborhood in partnership with a local builder, and a facility that opened in May for pregnant women and single mothers.
Although Mayor Preston will not be seeking re-election in the upcoming municipal election, he expressed confidence in the continuity of the city’s efforts. He commended the collaborative efforts of the community and council members who are running for re-election, stating, “This accomplishment, which I consider one of the city’s proudest achievements during my 8-year tenure as mayor, is a result of collective community engagement. I foresee our community advancing in the same positive direction for years to come.”