Common questions

Common questions regarding municipal efforts to help address homelessness in the Halifax region

Page Contents (links):

• Who is helping and how?
• De-designated locations
• Remaining designated locations
• Shelters & supportive housing options
• Modular housing units
• Long-term solutions

Who is helping and how?

What is a civilian-led response team and how can they help?

On June 4, 2024, Regional Council directed staff to proceed in developing civilian-led response teams (CLRTs) to provide supports to those experiencing homelessness in the Halifax region.

CLRTs will be teams of qualified, paid professionals made up of mental health specialists, social workers, by-law officers and peer support workers. These teams would be resourced to support those experiencing homelessness with primarily behavioral-related issues that traditionally receive a police-led response.

The goal is to provide additional support to those in the midst of a crisis, focusing on helping them address and resolve the situation. This type of support will mitigate many of the negative impacts of encampments for both those sleeping rough and communities they are in. This approach can also reduce criminalization. There are many models of this type of team across North America and the municipality intends to introduce this approach to our communities.

How are the roles different for the municipality and the province in addressing the homelessness issue?

The Province of Nova Scotia is responsible to lead addressing homelessness in all of Nova Scotia’s municipalities and has the mandate to provide:

• Public housing and programs for people with low to modest income; and
• Affordable housing throughout the province, including housing options for those experiencing homelessness.

While the province has overall responsibility on initiatives to address homelessness, the Halifax Regional Municipality acknowledges it also has an important role to play – and is committed to work with government and community partners to apply resources to support efforts aimed at helping to address homelessness in the Halifax region.

As such, the municipality has developed and led a number to initiatives to support those who are experiencing homelessness.  These include:

• Built modular units at two sites in Dartmouth and Halifax, with the capacity to house 64 individuals experiencing homelessness (26 in Dartmouth and 38 in Halifax. The province is providing wraparound services at these units through their service provider, Out of the Cold.

• Created temporary designated outdoor sheltering locations in municipal parks for those experiencing homelessness when there were not enough emergency shelter spaces or housing options available. These locations offer services, such as portable toilets, garbage collection, and access to supports through municipal outreach staff and Street Navigators.

• Approved $70,000 to a coalition of 11 community service providers for use as crisis funding for hotel stays to support individuals experiencing homelessness. In conjunction with service providers, the municipality has also directly covered the cost of hotel rooms for some individuals.

The municipality continues to provide the province access to select municipal facilities, which are used as temporary emergency shelters during severe weather events.

The municipality recognizes that there is a long-term need for more supportive and affordable housing for those experiencing homelessness and will continue to work together with the province on longer-term solutions. Recent efforts have included:

• The Affordable Housing Grant Program, which focuses on deeply affordable housing. In the two years since its inception, we have supported 200 units, and an investment of $2M.
• In October 2023, the municipality signed an agreement with the Government of Canada as part of the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) for $79.3 million that will enable Halifax to remove barriers to housing supply, accelerate the growth of supply and support the development of complete, low-carbon and climate-resilient communities which are affordable, inclusive, equitable and diverse. In terms of supporting the creation of affordable housing, the HAF will enable an expansion of the Affordable Housing Grant program and establish a program to make surplus land available for affordable housing.
• With support from all three levels of government, the Rapid Housing Initiative has supported the development of 177 residential homes, working in partnership with our community housing not-for-profits. This program targeted housing for groups who disproportionately face chronic housing challenges, including people who were homeless with addiction, mental health or chronic health issues, single women and children, and African Nova Scotians.
• Worked with both levels of government to provide accommodations for up to 70 additional individuals in spring 2022, through the Rapid Housing Initiative.

The municipality remains in regular contact with provincial counterparts and community partner organizations to communicate available services to those experiencing homelessness.

Residents with questions related to provincial supports and services for those experiencing homelessness can contact 211 for more information.

How can residents help?

We've created a video explaining how residents can offer support to those experiencing homelessness. Click here to watch the video.

What is the role of a service provider?

We've created a video explaining what a service provider does. Click here to watch the video. 

What is the role of a Street Navigator?

We've created a video explaining what a Street Navigator does. Click here to watch the video.

De-designated locations

Why are these designated outdoor sheltering locations being closed? Why is it so urgent that they be closed?

The Province of Nova Scotia and service providers have identified indoor sheltering and supportive housing options; and we will all be working together to support residents in encampments to move indoors.

With this capacity available, the municipality is redirecting its focus towards supporting those experiencing homelessness through the transition to indoor shelters or housing options. The municipality is constantly assessing the need for designated locations. As more indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing options become available, more parks will be closed, de-designated and returned to their intended purposes as spaces for everyone.

Indoor shelter spaces are a better option than sleeping rough. They provide access to a warm space with heat, electricity, running water, showers, laundry services, regular meals and a place to store belongings. From a public health and safety perspective, access to safe drinking water, sanitary services, and environments free of rodents, physical, biological and fire hazards is important.

The municipality will continue to treat people experiencing homelessness with dignity while working to find ways to best support them within its capacity and scope. This includes enhanced efforts on the ground, collaborating with Street Navigators, the province and its service providers to actively work with and offer supports, including information about available resources, transportation of people and belongings, to anyone experiencing homelessness in the Halifax region. 

The municipality will also continue working with other orders of government, as well as through partnerships with community housing not-for-profits, on initiatives to support the creation of affordable and deeply affordable housing, such as the Affordable Housing Grant Program, the Rapid Housing Initiative and the Housing Accelerator Fund.

Why were these designated outdoor sheltering locations selected for closure?

As the province has assured the municipality that there are spaces available in indoor facilities to accommodate those currently in the designated locations at Geary Street green space in Dartmouth; Saunders Park, Victoria Park and Grand Parade in Halifax; and the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville, these designated locations will be closing effective today and have been de-designated.

Those sheltering at the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville need to leave as soon as possible as the province and their contractor will begin moving heavy equipment onto the site and preparing the land, no later than early March, for the previously announced tiny home community. 

Grand Parade is a significant public space that has been the centre of many key community activities and events. Based on the availability of indoor sheltering space, extensive community feedback, and the experiences of the last few months, it is being returned to its former state and intended purpose for the community.

Health and safety conditions in Victoria Park and Geary Street green space have steadily declined over the past few months, placing those sheltering in these locations in an increasingly vulnerable situation. Most recently, numerous rats and other vermin have moved into the parks. Staff have attempted to address the rising rat population but with the continued presence of food waste, their number is increasing. At this point, staff have recommended that these parks be closed to allow for the abatement of the rats and to restore the park grounds before additional damage is done so that they can be returned to their former state and intended purpose for the community.

What will happen to someone who is not able to move into a shelter space, for whatever reason? For example, they’ve been banned from shelters or there’s no space for them in a shelter that has the wraparound services they need.

The municipality is aware that not all people who are currently sleeping rough in these locations will be able to go to a shelter for a variety of reasons. We have assurances from the province that those sheltering in the temporary designated locations, who cannot move into indoor shelter spaces, will be offered an appropriate supportive housing option. 

We recommend that you contact the province regarding supports for those who cannot move into an indoor shelter space.

What options are being made available for those who require specific or significant supports?

The municipality is aware that not all people who are currently sleeping rough in these locations will be able to go to a shelter for a variety of reasons. We have assurances from the province that those sheltering in the temporary designated locations, who cannot move into indoor shelter spaces, will be offered an appropriate supportive housing option. 

The municipality will continue to treat people experiencing homelessness with dignity while working to find ways to best support them within its capacity and scope. This includes enhanced efforts on the ground, collaborating with Street Navigators, the province and its service providers to actively work with and offer supports to anyone experiencing homelessness in the Halifax region.

We recommend that you contact the province regarding supports for those who cannot move into an indoor shelter space.

What was done to communicate the closure of designated locations?

On Wednesday, Feb. 7, municipal outreach staff distributed notices and communicated with those sleeping rough in encampments at the Geary Street green space in Dartmouth; Saunders Park, Victoria Park and Grand Parade in Halifax; and the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville, that these designated locations will be closing effective today and have been de-designated. Those sheltering in these locations have been given direction to vacate by Monday, February 26. Supports, including information about available resources, transportation of people and belongings, continue to be made available. Signs have also been posted in these locations.

Municipal staff and Street Navigators will be conducting multiple visits to these locations to continue to provide information on available resources, advise them that the location is being closed and to explain the transition period, so they know they do not have to leave the park right away. 

The municipality is aware that not all people who are currently sleeping rough in these locations will be able to go to a shelter for a variety of reasons. We have assurances from the province that those sheltering in the temporary designated locations, who cannot move into indoor shelter spaces, will be offered an appropriate supportive housing option.

Who directed this action to be taken? Was this approved by Regional Council?

The municipality has adapted its approach to reflect changes that are impacting the homelessness crisis. As capacity for indoor shelters and supportive housing options continues to increase, the municipality is directing its focus away from the provision of designated locations and towards helping those experiencing homelessness to access better accommodation options. The municipality is constantly assessing the need for designated locations. As more indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing options become available, more parks will be closed, de-designated and returned to their intended purposes as spaces for everyone.  

Further to the December 21, 2023 Special Meeting of Regional Council, staff were directed to remove the designation from several outdoor sheltering locations. See declassified staff report here.

Shouldn't you wait until more spaces are available with the Pallet™ shelter villages and the tiny home community?

The Province of Nova Scotia and service providers have identified indoor sheltering and supportive housing options; and we will all be working together to support residents in encampments to move indoors.

With this capacity available, the municipality is redirecting its focus towards supporting those experiencing homelessness through the transition to indoor shelters or housing options. Indoor shelter spaces are a better option than sleeping rough. They provide access to a warm space with heat, electricity, running water, showers, laundry services, regular meals and a place to store belongings. From a public health and safety perspective, access to safe drinking water, sanitary services, and environments free of rodents, physical, biological and fire hazards is important.

The municipality is aware that not all people who are currently sleeping rough in these locations will be able to go to a shelter for a variety of reasons. We have assurances from the province that those sheltering in the temporary designated locations, who cannot move into indoor shelter spaces, will be offered an appropriate supportive housing option.

The municipality is also working with the province to build 100 Pallet™ shelters, 19 of which are expected in February 2024 at Beacon House and others coming later in the spring, as well as a 52-unit tiny home community, expected by fall 2024.

The province and its service provider are working with those experiencing homelessness to help determine who this type of support is most suited for, and who will find success in this type of space. It is likely that some of the residents for the Pallet™ shelters will come from existing indoor sheltering spaces. As they transition to Pallet™ shelters, spaces will open for those sleeping rough to move into an emergency indoor shelter space.

What happens if municipal staff don’t get to speak to someone sheltering outside?

Our municipal outreach staff and Street Navigators have made multiple visits to the different locations to inform them of available options and resources, as well as help connect them with the supports they need. They have also offered to organize transportation for those who need it. These communication efforts and offers of support will continue during the transition period.

Service providers have this information and have been using their networks to spread the word as quickly and as widely as possible.

The municipality and the province have also been sharing information as it's available through the media and their social media channels to ensure that the information and messages have as wide a reach as possible.

That said, we recognize that not everyone will have seen this information so that is why our approach is to ensure that as soon as someone advises that they would like to take advantage of an indoor sheltering option everything possible is done to connect that person with the province and associated service provider and help them relocate if they need that help.

Why is the goal to ensure people aren’t sheltering in tents? 

The municipality will continue to treat people experiencing homelessness with dignity while working to find ways to best support them within its capacity and scope. This includes enhanced efforts on the ground, collaborating with Street Navigators, the province and its service providers to actively work with and offer supports, including information about available resources, transportation of people and belongings, to anyone experiencing homelessness in the Halifax region. 

The municipality will also continue working with other orders of government, as well as through partnerships with community housing not-for-profits, on initiatives to support the creation of affordable and deeply affordable housing, such as the Affordable Housing Grant Program, the Rapid Housing Initiative and the Housing Accelerator Fund.

Indoor shelter spaces are a better option than sleeping rough. They provide access to a warm space with heat, electricity, running water, showers, laundry services, regular meals and a place to store belongings. From a public health and safety perspective, access to safe drinking water, sanitary services, and environments free of rodents, physical, biological and fire hazards is important. 

From the outset, the municipality has been clear that the creation of designated locations would be temporary. They were established to address an immediate need to ensure people had a location to go to if they had no other option but to sleep rough. 

The Province of Nova Scotia and service providers have identified indoor sheltering and supportive housing options; and we will all be working together to support residents in encampments to move indoors.

With this capacity available, the municipality is redirecting its focus towards supporting those experiencing homelessness through the transition to indoor shelters or housing options.

The municipality is constantly assessing the need for designated locations. As more indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing options become available, more parks will be closed, de-designated and returned to their intended purposes as spaces for everyone.
 
We also recognize that it will take some time to assist people in the transition to indoor sheltering spaces and we will work with them, the Street Navigators, service providers and volunteer groups to address any concerns they might have. Supports, including transportation of people and belongings, continue to be made available.

As long as the number of people sheltering outdoors is greater than the number of shelter spaces, how can the municipality consider reducing the number of designated outdoor sheltering locations? 

The Province of Nova Scotia and service providers have identified indoor sheltering and supportive housing options; and we will all be working together to support residents in encampments to move indoors.

With this capacity available, the municipality is redirecting its focus towards supporting those experiencing homelessness through the transition to indoor shelters or housing options. The municipality is constantly assessing the need for designated locations. As more indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing options become available, more parks will be closed, de-designated and returned to their intended purposes as spaces for everyone.

From the outset, the municipality has been clear that the creation of designated outdoor sheltering locations (designated locations) would be temporary. They were established to address an immediate need to ensure people had a location to go to if they had no other option but to sleep rough.

Indoor shelter spaces are a better option than sleeping rough. They provide access to a warm space with heat, electricity, running water, showers, laundry services, regular meals and a place to store belongings. From a public health and safety perspective, access to safe drinking water, sanitary services, and environments free of rodents, physical, biological and fire hazards is important.

The municipality will continue to treat people experiencing homelessness with dignity while working to find ways to best support them within its capacity and scope. This includes enhanced efforts on the ground, collaborating with Street Navigators, the province and its service providers to actively work with and offer supports, including information about available resources, transportation of people and belongings, to anyone experiencing homelessness in the Halifax region. 

The municipality will also continue working with other orders of government, as well as through partnerships with community housing not-for-profits, on initiatives to support the creation of affordable and deeply affordable housing, such as the Affordable Housing Grant Program, the Rapid Housing Initiative and the Housing Accelerator Fund.

As the supply of long-term shelter spaces and housing facilities grows, the need for outdoor shelter spaces decreases. While there is much more work to be done, there has been important progress. In addition to the modular units built by the municipality in Halifax and Dartmouth in 2022, there have been new shelter spaces opened by the province and their service providers in the past two years – including facilities at the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum, on North Park Street in Halifax, Windmill Road and Wyse Road in Dartmouth and Beacon House in Lower Sackville. The Overlook in Dartmouth opened in 2023, and the Waverley Inn on Barrington Street is scheduled to open in the coming weeks. 

What is the current number of individuals sheltering outdoors (in tents)? 

As of January 23, 2024, the municipality’s current estimate is that there are approximately 100 people who are sheltering outside. This is based on feedback from Street Navigators, service providers and our municipal outreach team. We do not have an exact number as moving locations occurs and some are also moving into indoor shelter spaces as they become available. 

What is the current number of individuals on the ‘by name list’? 

As of January 30, 2024, there were 1,112 people on the “by name list.” Maintained by the Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia, the ‘by name list’ is a comprehensive list of every person in the community experiencing homelessness. This includes situations such as people who are couch surfing, staying with a friend or family or sleeping rough (e.g. outdoors in a tent). The list is updated as people self-identify that they are experiencing homelessness. 

How many have moved into the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum to date? How many of those came from the locations that are no longer designated locations? 

As of February 1, there are approximately 50 people using the temporary emergency shelter at the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum. The number of people from de-designated locations will fluctuate as these spaces are open during significant weather events and as more people experiencing homelessness transition to emergency indoor shelter spaces. There is currently capacity for 70 people in total. 

A request for specific, up-to-date numbers should be made to the province.

What will happen if someone tries to set up a tent after the parks are closed? 

No one will be permitted to set up a tent or encampment in these closed locations. 

Geary Street green space in Dartmouth; Saunders Park, Victoria Park and Grand Parade in Halifax; and the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville are closed to the public while municipal Housing & Homelessness staff and Street Navigators work with those sleeping rough in these encampments relocate to indoor shelters or other more supportive environments. 

These locations will remain closed until they have been restored to a state suitable for their intended purpose. The municipality will provide an update when these locations re-open to the public, with the exception of the tiny home community site at the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville, which will continue to be a construction area until the project is complete.

How will the municipality be enforcing the park closures, to prevent members of the public from accessing them?

Signs have been posted to communicate that the park is closed to the public. Once everyone has left the encampments, sections of the closed parks will be fenced off, if needed. Fencing will remain in place until remediation can bring the parks back to a state suitable for their intended purpose.

The municipality will provide an update when these locations re-open to the public, with the exception of the tiny home community site at the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville which will continue to be a construction area until the project is complete.

Is the entire park area at each location closed to the public?

Yes, Geary Street green space in Dartmouth; Saunders Park, Victoria Park and Grand Parade in Halifax; and the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville are closed to the public while municipal Housing & Homelessness staff and Street Navigators work with those sleeping rough in these encampments relocate to indoor shelters or other more supportive environments. 

These locations will remain closed until they have been restored to a state suitable for their intended purpose. The municipality will provide an update when these locations re-open to the public, with the exception of the tiny home community site at the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville, which will continue to be a construction area until the project is complete.

Two additional designated locations - Beaufort Avenue Park in Halifax, and Martins Park in Dartmouth - have been vacant since their designation in fall 2023. They have also had their designation removed, effective Wednesday, Feb. 7. These two parks remain open to the public. 

Will you be issuing tickets to those sleeping rough in these locations?

Our intention is not to ticket anyone experiencing homelessness.

How long can the public expect to not be able to visit these parks? 

Geary Street green space in Dartmouth; Saunders Park, Victoria Park and Grand Parade in Halifax; and the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville are closed to the public while municipal Housing & Homelessness staff and Street Navigators work with those sleeping rough in these encampments relocate to indoor shelters or other more supportive environments. 

These locations will remain closed until they have been restored to a state suitable for their intended purpose. The municipality will provide an update when these locations re-open to the public, with the exception of the tiny home community site at the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville, which will continue to be a construction area until the project is complete.

How long will it take for you to re-open the five parks you’re closing? How much will it cost to remediate them?

Costs and timing will be determined once staff have had the opportunity to assess remediation and restoration efforts required. 

Meagher Park was closed in the summer of 2022 and it still hasn’t been re-opened to the public. What is the delay? 

Since its closure in August 2022, the municipality has done significant work to this site. The work includes site remediation, park design, and installation of new lighting, pathways and park furniture. Additional work, including plantings, is anticipated in the spring. The park will be reopened following that work. 

Remaining designated locations

Will the remaining designated locations continue to be available as options for those who may not or cannot move to an indoor shelter?

At this time, the status of the other designated locations has not changed. Our priority is supporting those people in the locations that were closed effective Wednesday, Feb. 7, and helping them transition to indoor sheltering or supportive housing options.

Indoor shelter spaces are a better option than sleeping rough. They provide access to a warm space with heat, electricity, running water, showers, laundry services, regular meals and a place to store belongings. From a public health and safety perspective, access to safe drinking water, sanitary services, and environments free of rodents, physical, biological and fire hazards is important. 

The municipality is constantly assessing the need for designated locations. As more indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing options become available, more parks will be closed, de-designated and returned to their intended purposes as spaces for everyone.

Will the remaining designated locations be closed? If yes, when?

The municipality is constantly assessing the need for designated locations. As more indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing options become available, more parks will be closed, de-designated and returned to their intended purposes as spaces for everyone.

Is the municipality looking to provide power to the other designated locations? If not, why? 

The municipality has provided power to the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville, the Barrington Street green space and Grand Parade. 

At this time, the municipality is not considering providing power to additional designated locations. Given the safety risks created by using fuel-based and other types of heaters in tents during the winter, the municipality’s priority has been on supporting the Province of Nova Scotia in identifying and creating indoor sheltering and supportive housing options. Providing these options significantly reduces the critical fire and carbon monoxide dangers associated with sheltering in tents in addition to providing access to a warm space with electricity, running water, showers, laundry services, regular meals and a place to store belongings.

The location at University Avenue doesn’t appear very safe, as it’s between two main roads. And there has been a tent fire at the Barrington Street location. Why didn’t the municipality close these designated locations?

Street Navigators and municipal Homelessness Coordinators regularly engage with those experiencing homelessness at all the designated locations. 

There is currently one individual staying at the University Avenue location and there are several individuals staying at the Barrington Street location. We’re actively working with service providers, including staff at 902 Man Up, to offer supports that can help with a transition to an indoor facility that best meets their needs. 

The municipality is constantly assessing the need for designated locations. As more indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing options become available, more parks will be closed, de-designated and returned to their intended purposes as spaces for everyone.

The number of tents at some of the designated locations is above the proposed occupancy endorsed by Regional Council. Will additional locations be made available?

From the outset, the municipality has been clear that the creation of designated locations would be temporary. They were established to address an immediate need to ensure people had a location to go to if they had no other option but to sleep rough. 

The Province of Nova Scotia and service providers have identified indoor sheltering and supportive housing options; and we will all be working together to support residents in encampments to move indoors.

As the supply of long-term shelter spaces and housing facilities grows, the need for outdoor shelter spaces decreases. While there is much more work to be done, there has been important progress. In addition to the modular units built by the municipality in Halifax and Dartmouth in 2022, there have been new shelter spaces opened by the province and their service providers in the past two years – including facilities at the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum, on North Park Street in Halifax, Windmill Road and Wyse Road in Dartmouth and Beacon House in Lower Sackville. The Overlook in Dartmouth opened in 2023, and the Waverley Inn on Barrington Street is scheduled to open in the coming weeks.

The municipality is constantly assessing the need for designated locations. As more indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing options become available, more parks will be closed, de-designated and returned to their intended purposes as spaces for everyone.

What is the municipality doing to promote fire safety in designated locations?

Municipal staff have developed educational material regarding fire safety for those sheltering outside. Over the coming days, municipal staff will be distributing a handout to those experiencing homelessness and signage will be posted in the designated locations as well as other locations where there are known encampments on municipal property.

What are designated locations?

Designated locations are spaces in some municipal parks where those experiencing homelessness can camp for the purpose of sheltering.

By-Law P-600 – Respecting Municipal Parks states that the Executive Director of Parks and Recreation has the authority to grant permission for camping in municipal parks.

These designated locations are for use by those experiencing homelessness. They are not to be used for recreational camping.

Where are the designated locations?

For maps of all designated location, see the Helping Address Homelessness webpage.

How were these locations chosen?

Municipal staff assessed several municipal parks against the criteria outlined below.

Locations cannot be:

• within 50 metres of a school, daycare, or adult care facility
• on active sports fields, dugouts, or bleachers
• within horticultural displays or gardens
• within cemeteries
• near environmentally or culturally sensitive areas
• blocking a path or right of access
• on bridges, docks, or piers
• near playgrounds, pools, or splash pads
• near skateboard parks or sports courts
• near picnic shelters, gazebos
• near recreation facilities
• in highly inaccessible spaces for individuals, services, and support providers

Once potential locations were identified, municipal staff considered the following when evaluating a proposed location: 

• proximity or availability of public washrooms, park washrooms, or another toilet option
• proximity to a potable water source for drinking and handwashing
• proximity to public transit
• proximity to services and supports
• site safety
• site privacy
• site maintenance services (including vehicular access and garbage removal)
• potential of damage to the site
• risk of conflict with other users of space

Is accessibility a consideration when selecting designated locations?

Municipal staff recognize that there is significant portion of the homeless population with mobility challenges and accessibility was a key consideration when selecting the designated locations.

In addition to the criteria outlined in the June 14, 2022, report to Regional Council, another factor that was considered in the selection process was to look at locations that people experiencing homelessness have used before. This also included getting feedback from those who have been sleeping rough for some time.  Some tenting sites that met selection criteria are in a location that is not easily accessible; however, if it was a preferred location by people experiencing homelessness, these sites were included in the designated area. 

How many tents are permitted at each designated location?

The number of tents permitted at each location varies. Some designated locations have more than one site – and each site can have up to a maximum of four tents. 

Will temporary shelters or similar structures (like sheds) be allowed in the designated locations?

The designated locations are only for tents, not structures like temporary shelters or sheds.

What will happen if a temporary shelter or similar structure is constructed at one of these designated locations?

Signage is installed at each of the designated locations to advise individuals on the guidelines for the location.

When a shelter is identified in a park, there is a reporting system in place for this information to be passed onto the municipality. 

If a temporary shelter is identified, the first step is to determine whether there is someone living in it.

If it is occupied, the municipality would aim to follow its typical procedure of first having an outreach worker or navigator visit the individual.  A compliance officer would also engage with individuals to ensure they are aware of the guidelines for staying at the designated location.

A reasonable amount of time will be given to the individual to move from the structure. which will be dependent on the individual’s circumstances and degree of health & safety concerns about the structure and its location. 

If the individual refuses to move from the structure, the compliance officer will provide them written notice.

If municipal staff feel a negotiated settlement is not possible, a response plan will be developed with the Executive Director of Parks and Recreation. This response plan may include the assistance of Halifax Regional Police, as there is a violation of By-Law P-600 – Respecting Municipal Parks.

The municipal administration does not have authority to direct police-related operational matters. Police officers fulfill their obligation to enforce the law, under the direction and authority of the Chief of Police. 

If a shelter is not occupied, the owner, if known, will be asked to remove it. If not removed, the municipal may remove it.

What are the regulations for individuals sheltering in designated locations, and how will they be enforced?

Individuals using designated locations will be expected to follow the rules and regulations that apply to everyone, such as By-Law P-600 – Respecting Municipal Parks, By-Law N-200 – Respecting Noise, and By-Law O-109 – Respecting Open Air Burning.

Additionally, individuals will be required to restrict the number of tents at each site to a maximum of four.

Compliance officers will regularly visit designated locations. During those visits they will confirm that residents are aware of the requirements of sheltering in that location. They will also ensure that people who are looking for assistance are contacted by Street Navigators, if that has not already been done.

If an individual is not following the rules of a location, the compliance officer will work with the individual to ensure they are aware of the associated regulations. After that, they may issue a formal notice, after discussing the matter with Parks & Recreation staff and compliance officers.  

Should they still not comply, the issue will be escalated for further response. This may include further attempts at negotiation and if all options are exhausted, and the status quo remains unacceptable, the issue may be referred to the Halifax Regional Police for action, as a last resort.  

How can people who use the designated locations, or those who live around the locations, report issues?

Individuals can contact 311 to report issues at designated locations or to access further information.

Halifax Regional Police should be called for any illegal activity taking place at a designated location.

The municipal administration does not have authority to direct police-related operational matters. Police officers fulfill their obligation to enforce the law, under the direction and authority of the Chief of Police.

How is the municipality controlling the number of individuals at each designated location?

Compliance officers will regularly visit designated locations. During those visits they will confirm that residents are aware of the requirements of sheltering in that location, including the limit to the number of tents that can be accommodated. They will also ensure that people who are looking for assistance are contacted by Street Navigators, if that has not already been done.

If an individual is not following the rules of a location, the compliance officer may issue a formal notice, after discussing the matter with Parks & Recreation staff and compliance officers. 

Should they still not comply, the issue will be escalated for further response. This may include further attempts at negotiation and if all options are exhausted, and the status quo remains unacceptable, the issue may be referred to the Halifax Regional Police for action, as a last resort.  

What services are being provided at each designated location?

Municipal staff procured and installed portable toilets and garbage cans and organized garbage collection.

Municipal staff continue to regularly visit designated locations to ensure the services are adequate and to mitigate issues where possible. Municipal staff will also continue coordinating with the Province of Nova Scotia and their service providers to ensure those experiencing homelessness have access to the support they need.

How will individuals experiencing homelessness be informed of the designated locations?

Municipal staff have produced handouts outlining the designated locations and guidelines for staying at these locations, which have been provided to individuals experiencing homelessness. 

Each site also has signage outlining the different sites, guidelines for staying at these locations, and supports available to individuals' experiencing homelessness.

What does the municipality intend to do about existing or new encampments at municipal parks that are not designated locations?

The municipality’s number one priority has been, and continues to be, treating those experiencing homelessness with dignity – and continuing to find ways to provide support within our organization’s capacity and scope. 

The municipality is committed to working with people experiencing homelessness, volunteers, community partners, services providers and the Province of Nova Scotia to identify and implement housing solutions as well as create pathways into safe and supported space for those who are unhoused.

That is why we have implemented the designated locations as a provisional measure in the short term to ensure there is a safe and serviced location for those who must sleep rough.

The first step was to equip the designated locations with services such as portable toilets, garbage cans, and regular waste collection. Additional services such as access to potable water, storage boxes and needle boxes continue to be added.

Through the municipality’s partners at the Province of Nova Scotia and its service providers, individuals experiencing homelessness will continue to be offered assistance, including available options for temporary housing which can lead to permanent housing solutions. 

If there are no housing options for individuals located at these parks who are experiencing homelessness, or if these individuals do not or cannot accept the options provided, the municipality will work with service providers to support people moving to one of the designated locations.

What happens if an individual who's sheltering at a location in a municipal park (not identified as a designated location) refuses to move?

If it is reported that there are locations that are being used for sheltering that have not been designated, a service provider, such as a Street Navigator, will engage with individuals experiencing homelessness to identify options and resources that are available, if that has not already started. If an individual is sheltering in a location that is not a designated location, the Street Navigator will also help with relocating to a designated area.

If the individual refuses to move, compliance officers will then engage with the individual to inquire on their plans to relocate and Street Navigators will continue to offer support to the individual.

If the individual has not moved to a designated location, the compliance officer may issue a formal notice, after discussing the matter with Parks & Recreation staff and compliance officers.

There is no set timeline for this process, as each situation will be looked at on a case-by-case basis and a negotiated resolution will be attempted as much as possible.  However, if municipal staff feel a negotiated settlement is not possible, a response plan will be developed with the Executive Director of Parks and Recreation. This response plan may include the assistance of Halifax Regional Police, as a last resort, as an individual camping in a location that is not a designated location is in violation of By-Law P-600 – Respecting Municipal Parks.

The municipal administration does not have authority to direct police-related operational matters. Police officers fulfill their obligation to enforce the law, under the direction and authority of the Chief of Police.

Why are all the designated locations in the urban core of the municipality?

Municipal staff assessed several locations across the municipality and based on the criteria listed above, recommended the designation of the existing locations. This recommendation was informed by historic use of some sites by those experiencing homeless and feedback from service providers about the need for proximity to services.

What is being done to clean up the parks where encampments have been located?

If a location where people have been sheltering has been confirmed as vacated, municipal staff will conduct an on-site inspection and determine what is required to clean up the site. The extent of work required will determine the time and cost associated with the restoration of these locations.

Shelters & supportive housing options

How will the indoor shelter spaces and supportive housing spaces currently available address all those needing indoor options?

The province has assured us that there are now enough spaces available in indoor shelters and supportive housing options for everyone in the encampments that are being closed – approximately 55 people.  

To be clear, this capacity won’t address all the needs for those experiencing homelessness. Across the municipality, there are currently more than 1,100 people on the By Name List (all those experiencing homelessness, including those who are couch surfing, staying with a friend or sleeping rough) and approximately 100 people who are sleeping rough (e.g. outdoors in a tent). 

Is the municipality working with the province to open any other shelters in the near future?

The municipality remains committed to ensuring those sleeping rough are provided better alternatives, working toward having safer, long-term housing options for everyone who needs them.
 
The municipality supported the province through the provision of Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum to ensure that there was a better indoor option available to those sleeping rough this winter. This space was identified as an appropriate option for short-term use as a shelter. This facility will return to its intended use after August 31, 2024, ensuring that scheduled programming for residents will be re-established. The province and municipality are continuing to work together to find an alternative long-term option to ensure that the necessary shelter space is available.

The municipality remains committed to ensuring those sleeping rough are provided better alternatives, working toward having safer, long-term housing options for everyone who needs them. The municipality is also supporting the province in developing long-term housing solutions. 

The shared vision is that every resident of the Halifax Regional Municipality has a safe, supportive, and sustainable home and that all homes are purposely constructed for long-term human habitation, built to safety codes and standards, and in a suitable location based on access to transportation and amenities and municipal planning strategies. The municipality is committed to working with all orders of government, service providers and communities to realize this vision. 

How long will the Multi-Purpose Centre shelter space be open?

The Multi-Purpose Centre is being used as a temporary emergency shelter space from January 22 to August 31, 2024. More information can be found in the joint announcement from the province and municipality.

The facility will return to its intended use after August 31, 2024.

Why is the emergency shelter at the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum closing in late summer when there will still be a need for indoor shelter space?

The municipality supported the province through the provision of Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum to ensure that there was a better indoor option available to those sleeping rough this winter. This space was identified as an appropriate option for short-term use as a shelter. This facility will return to its intended use after August 31, 2024, ensuring that scheduled programming for residents will be re-established. The province and municipality are continuing to work together to find an alternative long-term option to ensure that the necessary shelter space is available.

The municipality remains committed to ensuring those sleeping rough are provided better alternatives, working toward having safer, long-term housing options for everyone who needs them. The municipality is also supporting the province in developing long-term housing solutions.

If someone from any of the remaining designated locations shows up to the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum, will they be admitted? Are only those from the locations that are no longer designated locations being prioritized? 

In general, yes. Thirty spaces at the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum have been reserved for those from Geary Street green space in Dartmouth; Saunders Park, Victoria Park and Grand Parade in Halifax; and the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville. However, staff will look to accommodate others, provided that space is available. 

When is the Correctional Centre Park being handed over to the province for the tiny homes community?

Those sheltering at the Correctional Centre Park in Lower Sackville need to leave as soon as possible as the province and their contractor will begin moving heavy equipment onto the site and preparing the land, no later than early March, for the previously announced tiny home community. 

The province has indicated that the project will begin March 1, 2024.

With the province’s announcement on January 10, 2024, about the upcoming Pallet™ village in Sackville at Beacon House, who will be living in this and the other Pallet™ villages?

The Pallet™ shelter villages are for people experiencing homelessness. The province and its service provider are working with those experiencing homelessness to help determine who this type of support is most suited for, and who will find success in this type of space. It is likely that some of the residents for the Pallet™ shelters will come from existing indoor sheltering spaces. As they transition to Pallet™ shelters, spaces will open for those sleeping rough to move into an emergency indoor shelter space.

Are the Pallet™ shelters suitable for Nova Scotian winters?

Pallet™ has helped establish shelter villages in many areas across North America, including places with a similar climate to Nova Scotia, like Boston. They have been tested in extreme weather conditions. Each unit has climate control, making sure there is enough heat in the winter, and that they can stay cool in the summer. 

What is the difference between Pallet™ shelters & tiny homes?

Pallet™ shelters are a rapid and scalable form of transitional shelters that provide those experiencing homelessness with the privacy and security of their own room with their own door. Each Pallet™ shelter is heated, insulated, includes a bed, a desk, storage space, lighting and safe access to electricity. These shelters can be a stepping stone toward long-term housing. Pallet™ is the brand name of the organization that makes these shelters. Pallet™ shelter villages have shared kitchen and bathroom spaces for community members to use. 

Tiny homes are a longer-term housing solution with all of the amenities of a home, condensed into a smaller space. Tiny homes are heated, connected to services such as water, wastewater and power, and contain sleeping, cooking, and living spaces, as well as a bathroom with a shower. Unlike Pallet™ shelters, these tiny homes will be rented to residents. Rent will be geared to income, which means that rent will be no more than 30 per cent of a person’s income. Community residents will be selected by the province from the HRM By Name List and will receive the wraparound support they need to be successful in this type of housing.

Who is operating the Multi-Purpose Centre shelter space?

The province is operating the facility as a temporary emergency shelter with meals and wraparound services through 902 Man Up, a local service provider.

The municipality has provided the space at no cost to the province for this use.

What programming at the Multi-Purpose Centre is being impacted as a result of it being used as a temporary emergency shelter until August 31, 2024?

There are 16 events, both non-profit and for-profit, that were previously booked to use the Multi-Purpose Centre that will be impacted. The facility will return to its intended use after August 31, 2024.

Municipal staff are working with the Halifax Forum Community Association and the facility staff to inform the groups and individuals who had previously booked the Multi-Purpose Centre about the creation of this new shelter space, to address the impact of this change to their booking and discuss alternative options for their events.

What infrastructure has been installed inside and outside the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum?

The municipality is covering the cost to install a temporary shower trailer next to the Multi-Purpose Centre as the centre only has washroom facilities (sinks and toilets). The agreement between the municipality and the province does not include the use of areas in the Halifax Forum. 

The municipality is also working with the province to look at options to create some privacy for those staying in the shelter, such as installing privacy curtains or walls between individual spaces.

Additional questions about the installation of any other infrastructure to support this shelter should be directed to the province as they are operating the facility as a temporary emergency shelter.

Will tents be permitted inside the shelter at the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum? If not, why?

Tents will not be allowed in the Multi-Purpose Centre at this time, consistent with the current provincial model for shelters. The municipality is working with the province to look at other options to create some privacy for those staying in the shelter, such as installing privacy curtains or walls between individual spaces.

Will tents be permitted outside the shelter at the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum/ in the parking lot? If not, why?

The current plan for the Multi-Purpose Centre is focused on creating an inside space where there is access to electricity, heat, running water, showers, laundry services and regular meals. Tents outside the facility are not planned at this time as it is anticipated that there will be enough space inside. 

Modular housing units

With the additional emergency shelter spaces and transitional & supportive housing that the province has opened, what is the long-term outlook for the municipal modular units? How long do you expect to be able to operate them? Are they still needed?

The Dartmouth site, located on Alderney Drive near Church Street, consists of four modular units, an accessible unit, and two support units. Occupancy permits were approved on Jan. 13, 2022, and the provincial service provider, Out of the Cold, facilitated placements of individuals on Jan. 16, 2022. This site currently can accommodate 26 individuals.

The Halifax site, located at the western portion of the Centennial Pool parking lots accessed from Cogswell Street, consists of six modular units and three support units. Occupancy permits were approved on April 14, 2022, for 36 rooms and for two barrier-free rooms and the commercial kitchen on May 3, 2022. Also run by Out of the Cold, this site can currently accommodate 38 individuals.

As these units are operated by the province, through Out of the Cold, they are best positioned to advise on how long they anticipate operating them.

What investment has been made by the municipality towards the modular units?

On Nov. 9, 2021, Regional Council approved allocating $3.2 million towards the purchase, installation, and maintenance of modular units at two sites to accommodate unhoused individuals (see staff report here). An additional $1.2 million was allocated on Jan. 11, 2022 (see staff report here), and a further $206,000 of unused educational funding was reallocated on March 1, 2022 (see staff report here). This is an addition to $500,000, which was allocated on Aug. 31, 2021 (see staff report here) for emergency accommodations.

What is the total cost of the modular units?

The total estimated cost for the modular units initiative is $4,364,000. This includes purchase and installation of the units.

What was the municipality’s role and the province’s role in this initiative?

While the province is responsible to lead addressing homelessness in all regions of the province, the municipality has an important role to play – and is committed to applying resources to support efforts aimed at helping to address homelessness in the Halifax region.

The municipality has provided the purchase, installation, and maintenance of these units, with a capacity for a total of 64 individuals experiencing homelessness. The municipality will also provide all typical municipal services, such as waste collection, and cover the cost of utilities and maintenance at these sites.

The province is responsible for determining placement of individuals and providing wrap-around services onsite through its service provider, Out of the Cold.

Long-term solutions

What is the municipality doing to support the creation of new long-term indoor shelter spaces?

Municipality issues Request for Expressions of Interest for Long-Term Shelter Options - March 15, 2024

In coordination with the Province of Nova Scotia, the Halifax Regional Municipality is seeking options through a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) for a long-term indoor shelter space to provide overnight accommodations for approximately 100 people experiencing homelessness.

The municipality will assess and provide all viable responses that meet the criteria to the Province of Nova Scotia for consideration as a replacement site for the provincially funded shelter at the Multi-Purpose Centre of the Halifax Forum. As previously stated, this facility is scheduled to return to its intended purpose for the community on August 31, 2024.

Those interested in responding to the RFEI are to contact the broker, Cushman & Wakefield Atlantic, with any inquiries at charding@cwatlantic.com or 902.414.7264.

The municipality continues to work with and listen to those experiencing homelessness to identify barriers for those who may not or cannot accept indoor sheltering options. These insights have helped inform considerations outlined in the RFEI for a potential long-term indoor shelter space. This information is also shared with the province to inform ways to address these barriers in existing provincially funded facilities.

The RFEI can be viewed here.

What is the municipality doing to support affordable housing?

As housing insecurity continues to be an issue in the region, all three levels of government play a role in the development and rehabilitation of affordable housing.

The municipality recognizes that there is a long-term need for more supportive and affordable housing for those experiencing homelessness and will continue to work together with the province on longer-term solutions. The municipality also acknowledges housing is a shared responsibility and issues surrounding affordable housing, and homelessness, cannot be solved by any single group or with any single solution. Recent efforts have included:

• The Affordable Housing Grant Program, which focuses on deeply affordable housing. In the two years since its inception, we have supported 200 units, and an investment of $2M.
• In October 2023, the municipality signed an agreement with the Government of Canada as part of the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) for $79.3 million that will enable Halifax to remove barriers to housing supply, accelerate the growth of supply and support the development of complete, low-carbon and climate-resilient communities which are affordable, inclusive, equitable and diverse. In terms of supporting the creation of affordable housing, the HAF will enable an expansion of the Affordable Housing Grant program and establish a program to make surplus land available for affordable housing.
• With support from all three levels of government, the Rapid Housing Initiative has supported the development of 177 residential homes, working in partnership with our community housing not-for-profits. This program targeted housing for groups who disproportionately face chronic housing challenges, including people who were homeless with addiction, mental health or chronic health issues, single women and children, and African Nova Scotians.
• Worked with both levels of government to provide accommodations for up to 70 additional individuals in spring 2022, through the Rapid Housing Initiative.

As such, the municipality continues to work with community partners and other levels of government to expand initiatives to help address both affordable housing and homelessness.

For more information about municipal efforts so support affordable housing visit our webpage.