Overview
In 2015, a committee of representatives from 26 homeless serving agencies, government, and other community stakeholders came together to consider ways of collaboratively responding to the complex healthcare and housing needs of homeless individuals in Calgary.
The shared goal of this committee is the improvement of health outcomes and housing supports for the city’s most vulnerable homeless individuals.
Seven Recommendations
Together we have established seven key recommendations. Each focused on establishing improved health, wellness, and housing outcomes for homeless and vulnerable Calgarians, regardless of when or where they seek services.
1
Better access to health services on front lines
Access to health services should be available through the entire homeless system of care; including shelter, supportive housing, and mobile outreach
2
Case management during transition to housing
Ensure access to intensive case management and health supports as homeless Calgarians transition into supportive housing
3
Recognize homeless Calgarians’ choice in Recovery Services
Integrate harm reduction approaches into the continuum of recovery services in recognition of homeless Calgarians’ choice
4
Responsive approaches for Indigenous Populations
Develop housing and health approaches that are responsive to homeless Indigenous Populations
5
Open Communication within the homeless sector
Ensure open communication and access to information amongst organizations and agencies serving homeless Calgarians
6
Specialized responses for women and children
Develop specialized responses for homeless women and children
7
Advance governance structure
Advance the development of a steering committee/governance structure to provide leadership and oversight moving forward
Health & Wellness Needs
of Calgary’s Most Vulnerable
In order to better understand the complex experiences of homeless Calgarians, the Calgary Recovery Services Task Force commissioned a study through the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine. This study analyzed the experiences of 300 of Calgary’s 900 most complex and chronically homeless men and women. The findings directly informed our recommendations and guiding principles.
Participating Agencies & Organizations
The Calgary Recovery Services Task Force is a collaborative effort of 26 homeless-serving agencies, government, and community stakeholders. Without the perspective, knowledge, and expertise of any, this would not have been possible.
Street CCRED
