MISSISSAUGA – The City of Mississauga is facing a growing homelessness crisis, and city officials are taking a compassionate, community-driven approach to tackle the issue. With encampments increasingly visible in parks, underpasses, and vacant lots across the city, a new coordinated response aims to address homelessness with dignity, respect, and actionable support.
The Region of Peel’s emergency shelter system is under intense pressure, currently operating at 130 per cent capacity and relying on hotel partnerships to provide overflow accommodations. But for many residents experiencing homelessness—particularly those living in encampments—safe shelter remains out of reach.
A Human Rights-Based Approach to Encampments
On June 26, Peel Region Council approved a Co-ordinated Homeless Encampment Response aimed at establishing a consistent, human rights-based system of support. The strategy involves collaboration among City of Mississauga staff, regional outreach teams, local police, and community organizations. Together, they assess health and safety risks at encampment sites, prioritize voluntary relocation, and provide hygiene products, food, and referrals to health and housing services.
Importantly, certain public spaces have been designated as No Encampment Zones, with protocols in place to remove encampments in those areas while ensuring support is extended to the individuals affected.
“This approach is not about punishment—it’s about compassion and practical support,” the City stated. “Every person in Mississauga deserves dignity and respect, regardless of their housing situation.”
Crisis Amid a Funding Gap
Despite best efforts, resources are stretched thin. Peel Region receives $578 less per person annually from the Ontario government for municipal and social services compared to other regions—a shortfall amounting to $868 million every year. This funding gap limits access to vital programs including housing, mental health, and youth services.
City officials continue to call on the provincial and federal governments to increase funding, emphasizing that municipal governments cannot meet the rising needs on their own.
Proactive Measures: The Open Window Hub
Mississauga has taken notable steps to address homelessness, including the approval of a $44 million Community Improvement Plan (CIP) to encourage the development of affordable rental housing.
At the heart of the city’s support network is the Open Window Hub, located on Level 2 of the Hazel McCallion Central Library. The Hub offers on-site access to social workers, housing support, mental health resources, food, hygiene products, Wi-Fi, and digital access. Since its launch, the Hub has served 6,700 people, responding to over 20,800 requests for support, including 1,823 housing requests and 1,441 referrals to shelter programs.
“Each connection made at the Hub is a step toward housing stability, health, and hope,” said a City representative.
Community Resources and Outreach
The Peel Street Outreach Team plays a vital role in connecting encampment residents with support. Available 24/7 via the Street Help Line at 1-877-848-8481, the team offers food, hygiene kits, referrals, and wellness checks.
Additional services include:
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Emergency shelter access: Call 905-450-1996
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Shower Access Passes at community centres
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Free groceries and vouchers via local food banks (Call 211)
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Mental health supports through the Distress Centre, EveryMind, and Peel Public Health
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Transitional youth housing through Peel Region programs
Visit mississauga.ca/homelessness for a full directory of resources.
Mississauga’s Message: It Takes a Village
Officials emphasize that homelessness isn’t just about housing—it’s about people. And while most of Mississauga’s unhoused population is accessing shelter and services, encampments remain a visible reminder of the city’s growing need for affordable housing and systemic support.
“The story of being unhoused in Mississauga is not just about numbers. It’s about people,” the City noted in a recent release. “Every resident deserves a safe, stable place to call home.”
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