CMHA Ottawa recognizes World Mental Health Day and World Homeless Day 

Oct 10, 2024

Not only does October 10th mark World Mental Health Day, it is also World Homeless Day. 

According to the United Nations’ Universal Declaration Of Human Rights, the right to housing is protected under international law. According to the most recent Point in Time (PiT) count in Ottawa, there were 1,340 people in the city experiencing homelessness in 2021, a number we know has since grown. Indeed, the 2024 PiT count will occur in Ottawa later this month. 

Meanwhile, according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, 30-40% of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness also live with a mental illness. The Homeless Hub points out that this figure climbs to 76% in one international study of wealthy countries like Canada that also included substance use disorders. 

At CMHA Ottawa, we primarily provide programs and services for individuals in the Ottawa area experiencing severe and persistent mental illness and/or substance use disorder, many of whom are experiencing chronic homelessness. On days like today, we acknowledge the incredible efforts of our staff and clients as they navigate a challenging landscape every single day. 

As one of Canada’s largest Housing First providers, we know that housing is the first step to recovery from mental illness and/or substance use disorder. (In the Housing First model, people experiencing chronic homelessness in addition to mental health and addictions issues are provided with independent and permanent housing of their choosing—without conditions—prior to additional supports and services.) 

To us, it is no mistake that both World Mental Health Day and World Homeless Day coincide every year on this day. Please join us in advocating for housing for all, and mental health for all. 

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Ottawa Branch (CMHA Ottawa), is an independent, community-based non-profit organization that provides services for eligible individuals in the Ottawa area with severe and persistent mental illness and/or substance use disorder, many of whom are experiencing chronic homelessness or are vulnerably housed. CMHA Ottawa is dedicated to promoting good mental health, developing and implementing sustainable support systems and services, and encouraging public action to strengthen community mental health services and related policies and legislation.