Surge in the number of people living in Sudbury encampments

Greater Sudbury says the number of people living in encampments and unsheltered outdoors has more than doubled in the last year.

As of last week, at least 200 people are living in encampments in 49 locations across the city, the city said in a news release Thursday.

Greater Sudbury says the number of people living in encampments and unsheltered outdoors has more than doubled in the last year. (File)

"This is a significant increase from the same time last year when we knew of 77 people across 44 locations," the city said.

"The reasons for increasing homelessness right across the country are systemic and complex, including increasing market rents, inadequate social assistance rates, insufficient mental health and addiction supports and lack of investment in affordable housing by senior levels of government."

In addition to homelessness prevention that helps low-income families, there are currently three emergency shelters with 73 beds operating in the city and 17 local agencies that help people experiencing homelessness find housing and supports.

Local motel rooms are also being used to bridge people with an imminent offer of permanent housing.

"While the City of Greater Sudbury can’t end homelessness on its own, we are committed to taking a leading role in improving the local homelessness situation," the city said.

For encampments on city property in Sudbury, officers serve notice to the occupants that they aren't allowed to camp in that location. (File)

"The city continues to work collaboratively with community partners to support people experiencing homelessness, including those living in encampments, and help them access housing."

Sudbury is using a coordinated response with its encampment strategy from 2021 involving municipal law enforcement officers, social services staff and community partners.

For encampments on city property, officers serve notice to the occupants that they aren't allowed to camp in that location.

"The length of time it takes to remove an encampment may be determined by the availability of short-term housing options, such as supportive housing and available shelter space," the city said.

"In the meantime, city staff continue to check in on the wellness of individuals, assess levels of risk and connect them with appropriate services while communicating that they must move on from the location."

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The area is cleaned once an encampment is removed.

For encampments located on private property, the owner should report trespassing to Greater Sudbury Police Service.

Criminal activity should also be reported to police.

"Anyone wishing to notify the city of an encampment can do so by calling 311 or emailing [e-mail]," the news release said.

Greater Sudbury has a goal to end homelessness by 2030.

Read the recommendations approved by city council May 28 to achieve that.