Homelessness is a complex issue that affects many people at different points in their lives. Every night there are homeless individuals and families in Red Deer. They stay in shelters, sleep outside, temporarily stay with friends and live in cars - their circumstances are vast and diverse. Some have been homeless for a long time; for others it is a new and scary situation. They may have become homeless due to an untreated mental illness, because they are fleeing domestic violence or have lost their job. They are individuals and families; youth and seniors; long time residents and newcomers and they represent diverse cultures. The effects of homelessness are profound and the impact on our community is evident.

This situation is unacceptable in our community, in all communities. Through local, provincial and national initiatives, ending homelessness is possible.