Montréal has dismantled temporary emergency shelters in Outremont, leaving dozens of homeless individuals without housing as the city grapples with a worsening homelessness crisis. The move, confirmed by city officials, follows months of pressure from residents and local politicians, but has sparked outrage from advocacy groups who describe it as a “humanitarian failure.” With winter approaching, experts warn the decision could lead to a surge in street homelessness and related health risks.
According to CBC News, the shelters—part of a network of 12 temporary housing units set up in 2023—were removed without prior notice to residents or service providers. The city’s public safety department stated in a statement that the structures were “no longer compliant with municipal bylaws,” but did not specify which regulations were violated. Advocates, however, argue the real reason is political pressure from Outremont’s municipal council, which has long opposed the shelters’ presence.
This development comes as Montréal faces one of Canada’s most severe homelessness crises, with over 11,000 people experiencing homelessness in the city, according to Statistics Canada. The situation has been exacerbated by a housing shortage, rising rents, and cuts to social services. While the city has pledged to build 10,000 new social housing units by 2030, critics say the timeline is too slow to address the immediate crisis.
Why Did Montréal Remove the Temporary Shelters?
City officials cite municipal bylaw non-compliance as the reason for dismantling the shelters, but advocacy groups and opposition politicians allege the decision was driven by political pressure. Outremont’s municipal council has repeatedly expressed concerns about the shelters’ impact on the neighborhood, despite studies showing they have not led to increased crime or public disorder.
In a statement to La Presse, Montréal’s public safety director, Pierre Lapointe, said the city is “committed to providing housing solutions,” but added that temporary measures must comply with local regulations. Critics, however, argue the city is prioritizing political convenience over humanitarian needs.
This is not the first time Montréal has faced backlash over its homelessness policies. In 2022, the city was criticized for closing a large shelter in the Plateau-Mont-Royal district, leading to protests and legal challenges. The current decision in Outremont risks reigniting similar controversies.
Who Is Affected and What Are the Risks?
The shelters in Outremont were home to approximately 40 individuals, including families and veterans, according to the Homeless Hub. Without alternative housing, these individuals now face the risk of sleeping on the streets as temperatures drop. Advocates warn this could lead to:
- Increased health risks, including hypothermia and respiratory illnesses, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with disabilities.
- Greater strain on emergency services, as homeless individuals seek shelter in hospitals and police stations.
- Escalating tensions with residents, as visible homelessness grows in affluent neighborhoods.
Dr. Émilie Tremblay, a public health specialist at the Université de Montréal, told Radio-Canada that the removal of shelters without a clear housing alternative is “a public health crisis waiting to happen.” She noted that Montréal already has one of the highest rates of chronic homelessness in Canada, and winter conditions could push the situation to a breaking point.
What Are the Alternatives Being Offered?
Montréal’s city council has pledged to relocate residents to other emergency shelters, but advocates say these alternatives are already at capacity. The city operates a network of 12 emergency shelters with a total of 1,200 beds, but demand far outstrips supply. According to the City of Montréal’s official website, only 30% of homeless individuals are currently housed in emergency shelters, with the rest living in temporary housing, on the streets, or in unsafe conditions.
Opposition city councillor Marie-Ève Durocher (Vrai Montréal) has demanded an emergency session to discuss the situation. “This is not a solution—it’s an abandonment,” she told reporters. “We need immediate action, not bureaucratic delays.” Meanwhile, the provincial government has announced an additional $50 million in funding for homelessness initiatives, but critics say more needs to be done at the municipal level.
What Happens Next?
The next critical checkpoint is a city council meeting scheduled for October 15, where officials are expected to address the shelter crisis. Advocacy groups, including Recherche-Action Montréal and the Homeless Hub, have called for:
- A 30-day moratorium on shelter removals until permanent housing solutions are secured.
- An independent review of Montréal’s homelessness strategy.
- Immediate funding for winterization programs to protect those sleeping outdoors.
Until then, residents and service providers are urging the public to donate to local shelters, including:
- LOFT Montréal – Emergency shelter and support services.
- Accueil Bon Secours – Housing and social services for vulnerable populations.
- Centre Jeunesse de Montréal – Youth homelessness prevention programs.
Key Takeaways
- Montréal has removed temporary shelters in Outremont, leaving dozens without housing as winter approaches.
- City officials cite bylaw non-compliance, but advocates blame political pressure and a lack of alternatives.
- Over 11,000 people experience homelessness in Montréal, with emergency shelters operating at capacity.
- Public health experts warn of increased risks, including hypothermia and strain on emergency services.
- City council will discuss the crisis on October 15, with calls for immediate action from advocates.
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