As Canadians prepare to head to the polls on April 28, Elections Canada is working to ensure that even those without standard identification or a fixed address aren’t left out of the democratic process.
Proving both identity and residence is typically required to vote in a federal election, but Elections Canada acknowledges that this can be a significant barrier for unhoused individuals. Diane Benson, spokesperson for the agency, said community partnerships and flexible identification options are key to making voting more accessible.
For those who use services like shelters, drop-in centres, or community kitchens, those facilities can provide a letter confirming the individual’s residence. For example, someone living in a tent encampment but regularly accessing a soup kitchen may be able to obtain a confirmation letter from the organization.
Elections Canada also accepts a broad range of documents to confirm identity, including hospital bracelets, prescription bottle labels, public transit cards, government benefit statements, or clinic ID cards.
“We know people who are homeless face barriers in trying to prove who they are and where they live, particularly the residence issue,” Benson said. “We get a better understanding of the challenges they face by working with the community groups that know them best.”
Vouching is another option. Susan Smith, chair of the lived experience council with End Homelessness St. John’s, N.L., shared her own story of voting while unhoused. She was able to cast her ballot with the help of a friend — a registered voter — who vouched for her at the polling station.
According to Elections Canada, any registered voter can vouch for one other person, provided they can confirm that individual’s identity and address.
Eligible voters can register online or at any Elections Canada office until April 22. Registration is also available in person at advance polls and on election day.