News

Community college student Trevor LaPier has struggled in the past, so he really appreciates being at a new stage in his life.

For instance, he really relishes the idea of supper at his Dartmouth apartment. Living in his new apartment means he can take care of himself like never before.

Building relationships with private landlords is crucial for the housing support workers.

Often, the need is to find a home, and quickly. And property managers who can be flexible and accessible are a key to success.

The housing support worker initiative was launched with local community agencies in 2011 – and in just a few years, the impact is being felt on the streets.

Since the program began, 1,300 more people living in stable housing by the close of 2014.

“Living in our society, we are often unprepared for homelessness,” says Karen Spurr, a housing support worker at Halifax’s Barry House. “You can always be one major stress or one job loss away from homelessness. We can help – we’ve been through it all before.”