Who Experiences Homelessness?
Homelessness can impact individuals from all walks of life. While public perception may often associate homelessness with single adults living on the streets, the reality is far more diverse.
Consider the woman trapped in an abusive relationship because she has no safe alternatives, the teenager who has been displaced due to family rejection, or the parents with young children living in an emergency shelter. Each of these individuals faces unique challenges, yet all share the experience of housing insecurity.
Recognizing the broad scope of homelessness is essential to developing inclusive and effective solutions. By understanding that homelessness affects people of all backgrounds, we can work toward comprehensive, evidence-based strategies that ensure no one is left behind in the effort to create lasting housing stability in Calgary.
Learn more about homelessness in Calgary by visiting the Calgary Homeless Foundation’s website.
Demographics of Homeless Population in Canada
According to the State of Homelessness report from 2016, there were at least 235,000 homeless people in Canada. According to the Homeless Hub, the figure of homeless people in any year in Canada ranges from 150,000 to 300,000.
In 2022, an estimated 105,655 people experienced homelessness in an emergency shelter, compared to 93,529 in 2021 (Figure 1). This increase was expected. As COVID-19 social distancing requirements were lifted, there was a gradual recovery in shelter beds and shelter use. On an average night in 2022, there were approximately 16,248 people staying in shelters, compared to 13,170 in 2021 (23.4% increase).
Homelessness in Calgary
Individuals experiencing homelessness
0
This data comes from the Calgary Report Summary: Point-in-Time Count, conducted by the Calgary Homeless Foundation. It provides a snapshot of sheltered and unsheltered homelessness in our city, helping to inform housing and support solutions.
Known Age
Sheltered vs Unsheltered
Data revealed a rise in the number of individuals utilizing shelters, while the number of people living unsheltered or residing in encampments remained consistent with 2022 count data.
Age and Ethnicity
Indigenous individuals make up 25% of the homeless population, significantly overrepresented compared to their proportion in the general population. This highlights systemic inequalities and the need for culturally appropriate services.
Gender Identity
60%
Male
30%
Female
<1%
Trans or Diverse
The remaining porcentage is unknown.