Ontario faces growing homelessness crisis with over 80,000 affected in 2024

A new report from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) reveals that over 80,000 people were homeless in Ontario in 2024. Nearly half of them have been living in shelters or on the streets for more than six months, or have faced repeated homelessness in recent years. The number of homeless individuals has risen by 25% in the past two years.

AMO is calling for long-term housing solutions, recommending an $11 billion investment over the next decade to build 75,000 affordable housing units. Additionally, they propose a $2 billion investment over eight years to provide housing for those living in encampments.

While Premier Doug Ford has acknowledged the issue, he emphasizes the importance of job creation and more housing. Ontario has committed $3 billion over three years for affordable housing and anti-homelessness programs, but AMO believes this is insufficient.

With over 268,000 households on waiting lists for affordable homes and wait times averaging five years, the homelessness crisis in Ontario continues to worsen, highlighting the urgent need for stronger government action.