Solving homelessness is possible, expert tells Thunder Bay audience

Superior Morning7:58Homelessness Forum

How do you end homelessness? We'll talk to the head of Homeward Trust in Edmonton about their strategy

People gathered in Thunder Bay Thursday morning to talk about ending homelessness as a community.

The CEO of Homeward Trust Edmonton told a Thunder Bay audience that linking various levels of government and social service agencies was key in developing a plan for Edmonton.

But Susan McGee added the business community also played a role.

"Within that business category, those that are ... relevant to the sector — landlords, major developers — but we also had the local Bishop, we had local funders involved," she said.

"We had entrepreneurs [who] really have been establishing Edmonton in its development as a leader in various industries."

McGee said the effort has been underway for about six years and is proving successful.

“Five years into implementing our plan, we have a better understanding of the impact of homelessness, costs to community and consequences for those experiencing it. Most importantly, we are convinced that homelessness can be solved.”