Housing and health

Senate report based on the testimony from a myriad of expert witnesses, site visits, roundtables and from those living in poverty and homelessness. Concludes that "far too many Canadians living in cities live below any measure of the poverty line; that too many people struggle to find and maintain affordable housing; and that an increasing number of Canadians are homeless". Finds that despite the thoughtful efforts and many promising practices of governments’, the private sector, and community organizations, that are helping many Canadians, the system that is intended to lift people out of poverty is substantially broken, often entraps people in poverty, and needs an overhaul. Includes 72 recommendations for action on poverty and homelessness.

Discusses the significant unmet need for medical care among homeless women. Argues that homeless women must be educated regarding sources of care, and clinics serving the homeless must decrease waiting times.

An investigation of innovative housing programs in Canada and throughout the world that best help women and men who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and who have issues associated with substance use.

Describes numerous types of chronic conditions that homeless women are likely to suffer and best approaches to their primary care.