Greater Sudbury's encampment population has doubled in a year

More supports for Sudbury's homeless population More tents are going up in Energy Court at an encampment near the former safe consumption site trailer in Sudbury.

More tents are going up in Energy Court at an encampment near the former safe consumption site trailer.

The city plans to repurpose the trailer and use it as an overnight warming centre that's slated to open Nov. 1.

“Right now, we know of 208 people who are living outdoors in encampments within our community across 40 locations all across the city," said Gail Spencer, manager of housing stability and homelessness for the City of Greater Sudbury.

"This number has doubled since (the same time last) year. It’s very concerning."

We talked to one woman who lives in a tent in a bush area close to downtown. 'Rachelle' said that being in a less visible area is easier.

"I think the key, like I said, is just out of sight, out of mind," she said.

"As long as you are not bothering anybody and they don’t really see you, they kinda' leave you alone."

But being less visible also means she is more vulnerable, Rachelle added.

"It is a challenge, as well, for theft of all our stuff. You know, people just raid our tent."

And she said having no overnight washroom facilities is demeaning.

'Degrading' living conditions

"I hope the city decides to put up some porta potties, that is the main thing," she said.

"It’s a little degrading having to go to the washroom outside."

While there are no plans for the city to provide porta potties at encampment locations, city officials said overnight washroom facilities will be available Oct. 1 when the Samaritan Centre extends its hours.

And there will be washrooms at the warming centre at Energy Court when it begins operations.

However, the city confirmed it does offer garbage pickup at encampments, with community partners coordinating cleanups.

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"As needed really," Spencer said when asked how often the cleanups take place.

"We try to keep track of how locations look, and we try to provide that service whenever we can."

The city said it’s awaiting word on federal funding for the upcoming winter to help fund resources to support the growing homeless population in the city.

In the meantime, city council has agreed to support increased services.