ANALYSIS: Canada’s Homeless Encampments See Political Element Taking Root

An Ontario resident says the agenda of some advocacy groups includes an element of ‘lawlessness’ that allows for ’an open air, unregulated, illegal drug site.’

A man clears snow off an enclosure at an encampment in front of City Hall in downtown Halifax, Dec. 4, 2023. The Canadian Press/Darren Calabrese

More and bigger homeless encampments have been set up across Canada recently and, with the help of advocacy groups, they’re taking on a more permanent feel.

Hunkering down for the winter, some have generators, heating stoves, winterized tents, and more. Advocacy groups have helped them obtain these supplies, along with legal help to stop attempts at moving them.