Feeny brings a “housing first approach” to Gatineau’s homelessness crisis

Taylor Clark 

Independent mayoral candidate Daniel Feeny proposed five “concrete measures” for immediate implementation to fight against Gatineau’s growing number of citizens experiencing homelessness on May 1.

Of his first measures, Feeny committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of those experiencing homelessness, stakeholders involved, and citizens in the neighbourhood with what he referred to as “frequent cleaning chores on the Guertin site,” establishment of a local service centre, improvement of adapted services, and continued collaboration with camp partners.

“Not knowing what will happen is a situation that adds anxiety and insecurity for our most vulnerable population, the organizations on the ground, and the residents of the Guertin sector. I don't just want to talk about cleaning, waste, (and) moving people. It's about our community and our fellow citizens. For me, this means respect, collaboration, and above all a 'housing first' approach,” Feeny wrote in a press release. 

The need for temporary transitional housing was evident, said Feeny. The candidate committed to the continuation of Gîte Ami’s Mon Calme project which provides citizens with a temporary housing solution for two to nine months as they seek new accommodations. Feeny also proposed a system to accelerate the support and authorization for transitional housing projects throughout the City.

“Funding for 500 housing units is available from the Government of Quebec for this type of need. Gatineau must be among the first to submit projects to help our most vulnerable population.”

In the hopes of better coordination, Feeny would like Gatineau and the province to jointly finance the position of a homelessness commissioner to facilitate dialogue and innovation between different levels of government and stakeholders.

Inspired by the Fondation du Grand Montréal, the candidate also proposed the creation of the Gatineau Foundation for Life with Philanthropie Outaouais to allow the City to bring together private and public resources to support local initiatives. 

Photo caption: In a promise of leadership, mayoral candidate Daniel Feeny committed to ensuring the safety of all players involved at the Guertin site in his plan to tackle Gatineau’s homelessness issue.

Photo credit: Daniel Feeny Facebook