In the Report Card on Ending Homelessness, released annually by the Alliance to End Homelessness, we present multiple indicators to describe the current situation in Ottawa and the change in homelessness over time. The use of multiple indicators allows for the measurement of the breadth and depth of homelessness. These indicators are interrelated which is observed when movement in one – positive or negative – produces changes in the others.

Many cities have developed plans for addressing homelessness using a broad range of interrelated targets which would, when met, result in a significant reduction in homelessness if not its complete elimination. We think some temporary displacement is inevitable due to family breakdown, mobility, job loss, illness, etc. With an adequate supply of affordable housing, these families and individuals can be re-housed in a reasonable amount of time.

From 2004 to 2008, the Report Card on Ending Homelessness compared the experience of homelessness in Ottawa in one year with the experience of the previous year. Recognizing that there has been little change over the last six years it is now time to establish targets that must be achieved to end homelessness.

For the 2009 Report Card, as in previous years, we measure progress by comparing any changes from year to year. Beginning next year, we will compare any changes or progress to the targets we have set as well as continuing to monitor progress over time.

The targets should be ‘SMART’: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Resourced and Time-bound with a ten year timeline.

Looking forward to the ten years, we hope to see a community where only 2,000 families and individuals have to use the shelter system each year because of personal emergencies like fires. They’d stay for an average of 30 days to find a safe and affordable home. Also, the social housing waiting list could be reduced to 4,000 households.