Homelessness in Canada is a complex and difficult problem. Simply defined, homelessness is a lack of conventional place to live, such as an apartment or house. Homelessness affects far too many people; immigrants, refuges and Canadians moving across the country to find work. In our major cities there are thousands of people living on the streets and sleeping in shelters and different churches every night. Especially in large urban centers like Vancouver, Calgary and Winnipeg where thousands are homeless, but also in smaller cities too - homelessness is rising. Homelessness is caused by situations like poverty, lack of affordable housing, addictions, health problems and mental illness. Very few people choose to be homeless. This ministry works to help raise awareness about homelessness, but also to encourage and support action from local churches in the CBWC. The consequences of homelessness are severe:
- Lack of adequate food and nutrition
- Constantly seeking new shelter
- Risk of harassment, sexual and physical assault
- Poor access to medical and social services
- Poor self-esteem
- Lack of adequate clothing
- Poor job prospects
- Development of mental health and/or substance abuse problems
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