Brampton Commends Ontario’s Efforts to Tackle Homelessness, Addiction, and Encampments

12 Dec: The City of Brampton has welcomed the Ontario government’s announcement of new legislation and funding aimed at addressing homelessness, addiction, and encampments in communities across the province.

Brampton’s Encampment Protocol exemplifies a commitment to balancing compassionate care with public safety. It focuses on providing individuals in encampments with access to resources and support while safeguarding the rights of all residents to enjoy clean and secure public spaces. The protocol also emphasizes addressing the underlying causes of homelessness and addiction for long-term recovery.

“Brampton’s Encampment Protocol reflects our commitment to compassionate care paired with public safety. This includes ensuring that individuals in encampments have access to resources and support while respecting the rights of all residents to safe and clean public spaces. We must also address the root causes of homelessness and addiction to ensure lasting recovery.”
– Rowena Santos, Chair, Community Services and Regional Councillor for Wards 1 & 5

The province’s proposed Safer Municipalities Act, 2024 aims to enhance public safety with stronger enforcement capabilities under the Trespass to Property Act, a ban on public consumption of illegal substances, and $75.5 million in funding. This funding will support municipalities in expanding shelter capacity, providing alternative accommodations, and accelerating affordable housing projects.

Brampton’s Proactive Approach

The City of Brampton has been actively addressing encampments through its Encampment Protocol, developed in partnership with the Region of Peel, Peel Regional Police, and community stakeholders. Key initiatives include:

• Encampment Policy Framework and Joint Protocols: A coordinated response plan for encampments in collaboration with Peel Region, slated for implementation in 2025.
• Brampton Encampment Response Group: A multi-agency team established in May 2024 to assess encampments, identify hazards, and execute solutions through weekly reviews.
• Site Cleanup and Restoration: Large-scale efforts to remove debris, hazardous materials, and litter to ensure public spaces remain safe and accessible.
• Enhanced Security Measures: Monitoring and enforcement in high-risk areas to deter future encampments.
• Proactive Communication: Weekly updates for residents, businesses, and stakeholders to maintain transparency and address concerns.

Advocating for Innovative Solutions

Brampton is also pushing for a Peel Region pilot program inspired by initiatives in British Columbia, which includes involuntary treatment as a last resort for individuals dealing with severe mental health and addiction challenges. The city advocates for a compassionate intervention model that prioritizes public safety alongside long-term rehabilitation and reintegration support.

“The introduction of new tools and funding by the province is a crucial step forward, but we need to go further. The rising number of mental health calls and opioid-related deaths demands compassionate intervention, including involuntary treatment as a last resort for individuals unable to seek care. Brampton remains committed to working with the province and Peel Region to save lives, restore public spaces, and support those in crisis.”
– Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

A Unified Commitment

The City of Brampton continues to collaborate with all levels of government to address the multifaceted challenges of homelessness, addiction, and public safety. Through these concerted efforts, the city aims to build safer, more inclusive communities for its residents.