Why Housing First failed in Canada
Homelessness in Canada is worsening, with up to 300,000 people expected to experience it this year. Despite the federal government’s efforts, including the 2017 Reaching Home Initiative, homelessness has continued to rise due to the unsustainable housing market. Finland’s successful Housing First approach highlights the importance of affordable housing and state involvement in housing infrastructure, which Canada lacks. The current Canadian approach, focused on private-sector partnerships, has failed to curb the crisis. To end homelessness, Canada must prioritize affordable, non-market housing and provide sufficient income support, but this requires strong political will.