Examining Housing Insecurity Among Previously Incarcerated Individuals

The purpose of this research aimed to understand the housing barriers among previously incarcerated individuals in Ontario. The research design was based on a qualitative approach, using a total of 9 key informant interviews to analyze the impact of incarceration in securing and maintaining housing. Participants from the study included Directors, Managers, Policy Analysts/Advisors, Probation & Parole Officers, researchers, clinicians, front-line staff at community organizations such as the John Howard Society of Ontario, Elizabeth Fry Society, Centre of Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH), Wellesley Institute, Strategic Initiatives at Strata Health and the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General. The findings indicate that the barriers to housing includes: (1) lack of collaboration between the provincial, municipal and local community organizations, (2) inadequate assessments to identify individualized needs, (3) insufficient funding to provide for housing initiatives and services, (4) lack of affordable housing, (5) lack of social housing available and (6) stigma associated being discharged with a “criminal record.” The study findings confirm the intersecting factors such as employment, education, financial assistance, social networks, mental health and substance use needs in attaining housing. This research indicates a required commitment and coordinated response across sectors, levels of government and the community to successfully help individuals reintegrate into society.