Nunavut to Conduct Point-in-Time Homeless Count
News Release
Nunavut to Conduct Point-in-Time Homeless Count
IQALUIT, Nunavut (February 10, 2014) – In three communities, a point-in-time homeless count is being conducted by the Government of Nunavut’s Department of Family Services. The count begins today in Rankin Inlet and lasts until February 12, 2014.
Direct counts of the absolute homeless (individuals and families who have no housing alternatives) are also taking place in Iqaluit, February 17-19, and Cambridge Bay, February 24-26. The count includes confidential and anonymous surveys with individuals accessing services, such as soup kitchens and food banks, and those staying in shelters, shacks, tents and other places not designed for long-term human habitation. Research is also taking place by telephone in additional communities.
"We know that homelessness is a serious issue, and we need to document the true extent of homelessness in a way that includes the voice of those directly affected," said Jeannie Ugyuk, Minister of Family Services. "Better policy and programming depend on both accurate data, and on understanding the problem from the point of view of communities."
The study includes interviews with community partners who work with individuals experiencing homelessness across Nunavut, and with those who provide services to the homeless from gateway communities, including Yellowknife.
Results of the homeless count and interviews are expected in April 2014.
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Media contact:
Andres Ibanez
Communications Specialist
Department of Family Services
867-975-7821