Homeless in a Pandemic: Exploring Impacts of COVID-19
One of the far-reaching impacts of COVID-19 can be seen through the increase in homeless tent encampments across Toronto parks. While there are numerous non-profit organizations and shelters operating to meet the needs of the homeless community, there have been 649 cases of COVID-19 contraction and at least 5 deaths in the homeless population since the pandemic began. The lack of social distancing and increased risk of staying in shelters is one of the greatest motivators behind homeless individuals’ decisions to seek shelter in tents. Today, we will be discussing the socioeconomic determinants of homelessness and explore current initiatives being taken by Toronto to address homelessness in the context of the pandemic.
Dr. Tomislav Svoboda is an Associate Professor, Family Physician and Public Health Specialist in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Toronto. His clinical work has focused on providing primary care based mental health and addictions care for those who are homeless. He has worked in this field for over 20 years and his program development and leadership work has included being medical and clinical director at Seaton House, Toronto's largest shelter for 10 years. In that role, he has developed innovative programs such as Canada's first Managed Alcohol Program, an academic shelter based infirmary, as well as founding both the Inner City Health Associates and the Inner City Family Health Team, which are Toronto based organizations of physicians and allied professionals providing health care in shelters and drop-ins in Toronto.
Dr. Tara Elton-Marshall is an Independent Scientist with the Institute for Mental Health Policy Research at CAMH, an Assistant Professor in the Clinical Public Health Division at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto, and an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Western University.
Lorraine Lam is an outreach worker and homelessness advocate at the Sanctuary here in Toronto. She has been part of this community since 2006, and has been working with the Sanctuary since 2011. The Sanctuary is a church and community that operates to provide programming and support to those experiencing homelessness in the city.
Produced by:
Mycala Gill - Junior Producer
Gillian Moncton - Junior Producer
Faria Amin - Junior Producer
Diana Lu - Senior Producer
Thea Koper - Executive Producer
Music:
“Crystal Floors” by ZOLA
“Ahead by a Century” by The Tragically Hip
