Moving Insights: Encampments, Hotels and Cooperatives

PDF - Report

CMHC's research explores housing transitions experienced by individuals in encampments, hotels serving refugees, and housing co-operatives. The study shifts focus from moves into and out of core housing needs to understanding the housing continuum, impacting policy choices.

Key Takeaways:

Housing Transitions: The study reveals varied moves between encampments, hotels, and co-ops, showing diverse patterns not always aligned with traditional models that rely on a progressive housing journey.
Encampments: People in encampments often face barriers to moving into stable housing, with fewer transitions to rental units. As the population shifts, we are now seeing more previously housed individuals who were renters, alongside chronically homeless individuals, residing in encampments.
Hotels: Refugees and migrants in hotels experience delays in finding stable housing due to lack of affordable options and discrimination.
Co-operatives: Co-ops are often seen as an end point in the housing journey, with applicants facing competitive and opaque processes.
Research Gaps: There is a need for more data on transitions from institutions, encampment dynamics, and new housing alternatives like co-living.

The research provides insights into housing transitions and identifies areas for further study. For a detailed look at the findings and policy implications, download the full report.