Latest data reveals 22 Hamiltonians died experiencing homelessness

Hamilton healthcare professionals have released another report looking at deaths among people experiencing homelessness in the city.

According to the report, 22 people died from June to November in 2022 and the average age of death was 43 – all 22 people who died were men.

The report states that 56 people have died since the project began in June, 2021.

Some 36 per cent of people have died under violent circumstances, such as homicide, suicide, fire or traumatic injury.

Their data also showed that 41 per cent died of an overdose between June and November 2021.

The report says these numbers show the critical importance of providing permanent affordable housing. It is also calling on shelters to provide overdose prevention services.

READ MORE: Hamilton city council evaluating expired encampment pilot strategy

The city contracted the Hub to run the overnight program back in December until March 31, and the Hub has confirmed the program will stop running after Friday.

The Hub is not an overnight shelter, but it allows anyone sleeping rough to warm up inside, get some food or shower.

During the extreme cold in February, the Hub saw over 100 people drop-in throughout the night.

In February, a woman who uses the Hubs overnight service told CHCH News it’s a matter of life or death for her and a place like the Hub gives her dignity.

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