The John Howard Society of Ontario, an organization that advocates for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, recently conducted a tour of northern Ontario to assess the region’s specific needs in terms of housing, treatment, and harm reduction programs. The society’s new report, Locked Up Locked Out, delves into the relationship between criminal justice system involvement and homelessness, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in the north.
During their tour, representatives of the John Howard Society met with service providers and individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system. Safiyah Husein, the director of policy for the society, emphasized the severity of the drug toxicity crisis in northern communities, which is exacerbating existing challenges related to accessing services. Issues such as transportation and the distance individuals must travel to reach hub cities were also discussed during these meetings.
Locked Up Locked Out underscores the cyclical nature of criminal justice system involvement and homelessness, noting that each can be a cause of the other. For instance, individuals released on bail without housing may struggle to adhere to their release conditions, leading to a return to jail. Similarly, individuals may find themselves homeless upon release from prison, resorting to committing minor crimes to secure shelter during harsh weather conditions.
Brendan Carlin, the executive director of Thunder Bay’s largest low-barrier shelter, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the discrimination and barriers faced by individuals seeking housing post-incarceration. Many individuals, he noted, are simply looking for a second chance and encounter difficulties due to their criminal record.
Husein emphasized the financial implications of improving housing options for individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Housing individuals in jail or hospital beds is significantly more costly than providing community-based housing supports. By investing in social housing, taxpayers can save money while simultaneously breaking the cycle of justice involvement and addressing individuals‘ needs effectively.
In conclusion, the John Howard Society’s advocacy for tailored housing, treatment, and harm reduction programs in northern Ontario is crucial for addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals impacted by the criminal justice system in the region. By prioritizing community-based housing supports and addressing systemic barriers, we can work towards a more equitable and cost-effective approach to supporting individuals in need.