The Homelessness Counts project, led by the Western University Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, aims to better understand and address the issue of homelessness in Canada. The project combines qualitative and quantitative research methods to generate insights into the experiences of people experiencing homelessness and to develop policy recommendations. Through the use of healthcare administrative data, the project has been able to analyze aspects of homelessness, including COVID-19 testing and vaccination rates among those experiencing homelessness. The project has also identified emerging trends such as the high rates of Alzheimer’s disease and opioid-toxicity mortality among homeless populations.
While the Homelessness Counts project is not a solution to homelessness, it provides valuable quantitative evidence that can inform targeted and proactive solutions. By quantifying and enumerating the realities faced by those experiencing homelessness, the project aims to raise awareness and advocate for the needs of this vulnerable population. The collaboration with ICES, a research institute with access to comprehensive healthcare and demographic data in Ontario, has been instrumental in conducting population-level research on homelessness. The project has already made an impact, with individuals experiencing homelessness being prioritized for early COVID-19 vaccination in Ontario shortly after the publication of the project’s findings.
The Homelessness Counts project emphasizes the importance of asking meaningful questions of data and using insights to drive policy and practice. The project’s methodological approaches can be replicated by others to generate timely and accurate interpretations of homelessness and its impact on health and well-being. By providing evidence and quantifying the issues faced by those experiencing homelessness, the project seeks to promote a better understanding of the problem and advocate for targeted interventions. Further research is ongoing, with preliminary findings highlighting additional concerns such as rising rates of dementia among homeless populations.