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How 'A Better Tent City' is trying a new way to tackle homelessness in Kitchener

How 'A Better Tent City' is trying a new way to tackle homelessness in Kitchener

This Matters

November 1, 202119m 42s

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Show Notes

Guest: Liam Casey, reporter at The Canadian Press

Trying to tackle the issue of homelessness is a difficult one, as there is no one singular fix. But one issue for many people living on the streets is that they dislike the shelter system, which in many communities is seen as the only real solution. During the pandemic, the feeling of unease best showed itself as many people experiencing homeless set up tents in public parks throughout the province. In Kitchener, a radical new idea called A Better Tent City was undertaken by citizens in that community. Using sheds and creating a communal space, this homeless encampment has been embraced by officials in the community and is being accepted by those that are seeking help. It's certainly not perfect, but it is a new approach that already has other communities asking about a closer look.