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. 2023 Feb;59(2):307-324.
doi: 10.1007/s10597-022-01009-6. Epub 2022 Jul 29.

A WISH to be Housed: Exploring the Winter Interim Solution to Homelessness (WISH) Temporary Accommodation Model in London, Canada

Tracy Smith-Carrier  1 , Jodi Hall  2 , Lindsey Belanger  3 , Ilene Hyman  4 , Abe Oudshoorn  5 , Julie B  6 , Amber Lindstrom  6
Affiliations

A WISH to be Housed: Exploring the Winter Interim Solution to Homelessness (WISH) Temporary Accommodation Model in London, Canada

Tracy Smith-Carrier et al. Community Ment Health J. 2023 Feb.

Abstract

Temporary housing programs (THPs) aim to serve the homeless population. This article explores the impacts of a THP, the Winter Interim Solution to Homelessness (WISH) in London, Canada, which applied a barrier-free, harm reduction model. Adopting an intersectional lens and interpretive description methodology, we analyzed data collected from WISH residents, utilizing a thematic analytic approach. Identified themes included: (1) "(It's) kinda like a real home" (WISH is unlike other shelters); (2) "It's like a buddy system" (A sense of community was fostered); (3) "It's the same size as a jail cell" (Problems with infrastructure); (4) "To keep us on focus" (Un/supportive staff/volunteers); (5) "I'm not sure what I'm going to do after" (The dearth of permanent housing creates trauma); and (6) "Too much bloody money in too little hands" (Distrust of housing providers). Although WISH was helpful to some residents, the temporary nature of the program limited its long-term impact.

Keywords: Harm reduction; Homelessness; Housing First; Low-barrier programs; Temporary shelters.

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Conflict of interest statement

Jodi Hall, Julie B., Amber Lindstrom, and Abe Oudshoorn are unpaid members of the WISH Coalition. Tracy Smith-Carrier, Lindsey Rawlings, and Ilene Hyman have no non-financial interests.

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