- Norfolk: 519-426-6170 or 519-582-3579 | Haldimand: 905-318-6623
October 18, 2021— Haldimand-Norfolk Homeless Prevention Services team, in partnership with Haldimand-Norfolk Health & Social Services, and other community partners, will be conducting homelessness enumeration on November 17 and 18.
Homelessness enumeration is a ministry-mandated count which uses a Point-in-Time (PiT) approach. This approach requires a coordinated community effort to count the population experiencing homelessness at a given time. Those experiencing homelessness or those believed to be experiencing homelessness will be surveyed for the purpose of gathering anonymous data. This data will provide a clearer picture of what the needs are for those at risk for or currently experiencing homelessness.
“We conducted our first enumeration in Haldimand and Norfolk in 2018. The findings led to the creation of the Homeless Prevention Services team,” said Louise Lovell, program manager for Homeless Prevention Services. “Our communities have faced unique economic challenges due to COVID-19, which has put a strain on affordability and availability when it comes to housing. This enumeration will help us determine next steps in preventing, reducing, and ending homelessness across both Haldimand and Norfolk.”
Community members who are currently experiencing homelessness, or those who have family and/or friends who are experiencing homelessness are encouraged to give their input by completing the survey when approached. Small gift bags are available for those who complete the survey.
Donations for items such as hand sanitizer, masks, reusable water bottles, hand wipes, toothpaste, socks, and winter gloves are still needed for the 300 gift bags being assembled. If you or your business have 300 of an item that you wish to donate to the gift bags, please contact Nicole Wagenaar at [email protected] or 519-426-6170 ext. 3241