A report was recently released by the Thompson Neighborhood Renewal Corporation regarding homelessness in Thompson.

It was based on the latest point-in-time count, or PIT count, conducted in October 2024.

In comparison to 2022, when the homeless number was determined to be 138, last year’s PIT count identified 215 individuals who considered themselves to be homeless.

According to Oswald Sawh, Executive Director of the TNRC, many people arrive in the city looking for jobs, services and, in particular housing.

“We are also seeing in around Thompson that a number of communities and First Nations are challenged with housing. Lots of overcrowded situations, that tends to drive people to the closest urban area.”  

Poverty is the main driving factor in homelessness, with the Churchilll Keewatinook Aski riding sitting at number one when it comes to the child poverty rate.

High rates of mental health issues, addictions, and family and intimate partner violence, combined with lower  high school graduation levels also contribute to the situation.

Hear more on the report with Oswald Sawh at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon on Thompson Today.