Encampments

Encampments are places that some of our most vulnerable residents call home.

What is an encampment?  

Homeless encampments are temporary, outdoor campsites on public or privately-owned land used by people experiencing homelessness, usually without official permission. 

Why do encampments happen?  

Encampments are not a long-term solution to homelessness. They are a visible sign of a growing national challenge. Across Canada, shelters and social services are stretched beyond capacity as rising housing costs and economic pressures make it harder for people to find safe, affordable homes. 

How we monitor and track encampments

Encampment activity throughout both Haldimand and Norfolk is assessed, tracked and monitored by a coalition of Norfolk and Haldimand county staff, including Bylaw, Parks, Recreation and Culture, Homeless Prevention Services, community partners, and OPP from both Haldimand and Norfolk. 

Homeless Prevention Services (HPS) staff assess and track all locations, including the number of individuals staying or visiting, duration, staff visits, services provided or offered, while documenting all interactions. 

How we help 

Encampment residents are offered available emergency housing and/or shelter services, transportation to neighbouring municipalities if needed, system navigation to other support services, and/or assistance with basic needs and income to help secure temporary or permanent housing. 

HPS staff initially attend sites with the OPP if there are any safety concerns (e.g., Remoteness of the location, behavioural concerns, or general well-being for the community at large). If it is determined that there are public safety concerns, the OPP will engage the Bylaw Department to move the encampments. 

If there are no safety concerns for the public, HPS staff will visit sites weekly and assist in rehousing. Once rehousing has been made possible or the residents have abandoned the site, the Parks Department will engage in site cleanup. 

HPS Intake Diversion staff are the primary outreach staff with OPP to public sites. Where sites are identified on private property, local property owners must report them to the OPP and/or provide consent for HPS staff to be on the property to engage individuals in services.