Isolation and Cold Temperatures Add to Hardships Faced by Homeless Residents
The holiday season is a difficult time for many experiencing homelessness, as cold weather intensifies and feelings of isolation deepen, say frontline shelter workers in Toronto.
“Whether you’re a newcomer spending your first Christmas away from family or a Canadian-born individual estranged from loved ones, the holidays amplify the feeling of not being at home,” said Michalina Seidl, a case manager at Bethlehem United Shelter.
Seidl emphasized the importance of compassion, noting, “People staying in shelters are regular individuals, often facing extreme vulnerabilities. A little kindness can go a long way, as you never know what someone is going through.”
Valentina Diaz, manager at Fred Victor Bethlehem United Shelter, explained that the emotional toll of homelessness is felt year-round but is particularly intense during the holidays.
“For those living on the streets or in shelters, life’s hardships feel even heavier during this season,” Diaz said.
Refugee claimants represent a significant portion of Toronto’s shelter residents. The city reported housing more than 2,500 refugee claimants in its shelter system in early 2023, a number that surged to nearly 4,200 by the end of the year.
Diaz said shelters have stepped up efforts to accommodate the growing needs of refugees, despite limited resources.
“We opened additional beds to support refugee claimants who arrived in Canada without resources or support systems,” she said.
Shelters Create a Sense of Community Amid Hardships
To combat the sense of isolation, shelters like Bethlehem United have organized holiday celebrations for residents, complete with games, music, and festive meals.
“We aim to create a joyful atmosphere and remind residents that, while they may not have family here, there’s a community to rely on,” Diaz added.
Ombudsman Report Criticizes City’s Treatment of Refugee Claimants
The challenges faced by refugee claimants were underscored by a recent report from Toronto’s Ombudsman, Kwame Addo, which criticized the city’s decision in May 2023 to restrict access to shelter beds for refugee claimants. The report called the move “inconsistent with city policies” and described it as “systemic racism,” noting that some claimants were denied access to available shelter beds.
The report recommended that the city clarify its policies to ensure equitable access for refugees. However, City Manager Paul Johnson dismissed the findings, stating in a letter that he disagreed with the conclusions and would not implement further changes.
Despite these setbacks, shelter workers continue their efforts to support vulnerable populations, striving to make the holiday season a little brighter for those in need.