How to support those experiencing homelessness year-round.
With the clocks recently changing, it is evident that Spring is right around the corner, yet for those experiencing homelessness, the changing weather can be a sign of new challenges. While Winter's brutal cold is undeniably harsh, the shift to Spring presents a surprising set of difficulties.
When many individuals consider homelessness and its many challenges, they typically think of the dangers of freezing temperatures that affect those without a consistent form of shelter. However, the disappearance of Winter shelters and a shift in public perception can create new obstacles when the seasons change. Limited space in shelters due to relaxed capacity restrictions during Winter can leave some struggling to find safe haven. Public areas that offered a semblance of privacy in the quieter Winter months become bustling with park-goers, pushing those experiencing homelessness into the spotlight and increasing feelings of vulnerability (Haven Toronto).
In the months after the holiday season, where charitable giving is often at an annual high, donations of essentials for the beginning of Spring like jackets and sweaters can dwindle, leaving a gap in resources just as the need for basic necessities persists. Food pantries might also see a decrease in donations, and access to showers and laundry facilities, crucial for maintaining hygiene, can become more limited. The season that brings joy and a sense of renewal for many can exacerbate feelings of depression and loneliness for those experiencing homelessness. The increased activity outdoors can disrupt sleep patterns, adding another layer of stress to their already difficult lives, leading Spring to be a time when mental health struggles are magnified for those experiencing homelessness (Kelso, 2015).
Homelessness isn't seasonal. The struggles faced by those without a home persist year-round. Here's how we can bridge the gap and ensure our support extends beyond the winter months:
Support organizations that offer year-round services, not just winter shelters. Look for those that provide job training, mental health resources, and access to permanent housing.
Think beyond winter essentials. Donations of non-perishable food, hygiene products, sunscreen, insect repellent, and umbrellas can be a huge help. Consider donating water bottles as well, as staying hydrated becomes even more important in the warmer weather.
Volunteer your time. Soup kitchens, shelters, and clothing banks often need help year-round. Even a few hours a week can make a big difference.
Advocate for change. Support policies that address the root causes of homelessness, such as affordable housing initiatives, increased access to mental health services, and living wage jobs.
Spring is a season of new beginnings, and by keeping the conversation alive and providing year-round support, we can help create a future where spring is a season of hope for all.
Written by Advocacy Director Erin Mlynaryk and Advocacy Officer Ruby Saban.
References:
Kelso, Rachel (May 11, 2015). Homelessness: What Happens in the Spring. https://ignatiansolidarity.net/blog/2015/05/11/homelessness-what-happens-in-the-spring/
Why Spring is the Worst Season to be Homeless. Haven Toronto. https://www.haventoronto.ca/single-post/2019/03/23/why-spring-is-the-worst-season-to-be-homeless#:~:text=When%20the%20weather%20grows%20warmer,of%20people%20who%20are%20homeless.
