Alberta addresses homelessness

The Alberta Government is continuing its efforts to combat homelessness in the province.

In 2022, the government implemented Alberta’s Action Plan on Homelessness and will be continuing implementation of the plan. 

The province will be streamlining grant administration for housing with support and providing provincial funding directly to front-line service providers.

“Our government has invested an unprecedented amount of funding and effort into addressing homelessness in Alberta,” said Jason Nixon, minister of seniors, community and social services. 

The province said the funding will remain stable and help those experiencing homelessness move into and maintain stable housing and access wrap-around services.

To help with these services the government is also working to improve the accuracy of data collection on a provincial scale. 

These efforts build on earlier initiatives by the government, including new supports like Indigenous-led shelters, women-only shelter spaces and expanded recovery services.

“When funding for emergency shelters and housing is meant to support Indigenous peoples, it should be delivered by Indigenous-operated organizations. While community-based organizations have served some of our people in times of need, they have not historically delivered in ways that reflect our knowledge and cultural practices,” said Chief Cody Thomas, Enoch Cree Nation. 

Thomas says providing funds directly through the Alberta Government will allow Indigenous-operated organizations to receive grants and deliver services that are rooted in cultural understanding and traditions.

As part of Alberta’s 2024 budget, they’ve invested $210 million in emergency shelters and housing. 

Read more: Homelessness up by 53 people since 2023