The City of St. Thomas is marking what it considers an important achievement in its fight against homelessness on Wednesday.
Officials mentioned that for the first time, more individuals are finding housing than those who are becoming homeless. Data from the city indicates around 79 people have secured housing so far in 2026, while about 69 new cases of homelessness were reported.
“This shows that when a community unites around a common plan and compassion, we can change the trajectory of something as challenging as homelessness,” stated St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston. “We still have work ahead of us, but this demonstrates we’re heading in the right direction, and a practical end to homelessness in our community is within reach.”
For nearly ten years, St. Thomas has been implementing a strategy aimed at moving individuals off the streets and into homes, modeled after the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness’ national Built For Zero program.
The focus for St. Thomas has mainly been on collaborating with provincial and federal governments, community organizations, and non-profits to increase shelter availability while also ensuring quick transitions from shelters into supportive housing that includes services like counseling and healthcare.
The city’s official goal is to effectively end homelessness within its borders by 2027, and officials noted that this latest milestone marks significant progress towards achieving that objective.
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St. Thomas mayor Joe Preston. (City of St. Thomas)
The recent figures come from the by-name list maintained by St. Thomas-Elgin Social Services. This list tracks local individuals experiencing homelessness and has decreased to 86, reflecting a 34 percent reduction compared to last year.
Danielle Neilson, acting director of St. Thomas-Elgin Social Services, emphasized that these numbers represent many lives transformed.
“Every individual who found housing this year results from partners collaborating instead of working separately, and I want to express my gratitude to every front-line worker, volunteer, and agency involved,” Neilson said.
<p"When discussing what factors have contributed to St. Thomas's success toward its goal, Preston highlighted that a shared vision plays a significant role."
“Having a council committed to decisions regarding how to eliminate homelessness in our community and agreeing that prioritizing housing for those without homes is essential,” Preston stated.
Preston also acknowledged local organizations like Indwell, YWCA, Sanctuary Homes, and Doug Tarry Homes for their roles in developing housing solutions for the city’s vulnerable populations.
Recent supportive and transitional housing projects breaking ground or opening include a 40-unit development for seniors and young adults on Hiawatha St., a tiny home neighborhood created with assistance from a local builder, along with a complex launched in May designed for pregnant women and single mothers.
The mayor expressed confidence about continuing these efforts even though he won’t be running in the next municipal election.
“I might be most proud of this achievement during my eight years as mayor; however no one person made this happen. This was truly a community effort backed by an outstanding council-all members are running for re-election,” Preston said.
“I envision our community progressing together for many years ahead.”
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