homeslessness response toolkit

For the Fundy Region

about this toolkit

As homelessness becomes more visible in our communities, this toolkit offers residents, businesses, and organizations practical steps, respectful language tips, everyday guidance, and local resources to navigate common situations with compassion and safety in mind. It is a living document that will be updated regularly.

what’s in this toolkit?

Understanding Homelessness — What it means, harm reduction, roles & responsibilities

What We Say Matters — Language tips to reduce stigma

What To Do If… — Step-by-step guide for common situations (e.g., sleeping in a doorway, mental health crisis, found needle, overdose, etc.)

What’s Happening in Our Region — Service providers & contacts, local data

Click to get the printable version

understanding homelessness

People experiencing homelessness are individuals first, navigating a complex, painful reality, not just problems to be solved.

Homelessness is rooted in systemic issues: affordable housing shortages, gaps in mental health services, low-wage or unstable employment, and insufficient social services—not simply poor choices or personal failings.

According to the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness, it includes a range of housing and shelter circumstances:
- Unsheltered
- Emergency Sheltered
- Provisionally Accommodated
- At Risk of Homelessness
Even those who are housed can face vulnerability similar to unsheltered, emergency sheltered, or provisionally accommodated individuals. Recognizing this broader spectrum helps us understand and respond effectively.
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what we say matters

Language shapes perceptions, reinforces stereotypes, and contributes to stigma. The words we choose influence our own attitudes and those of others, and using humanizing language helps us see people experiencing homelessness as individuals deserving respect and support.

Using respectful language demonstrates care for vulnerable community members and helps educate the wider community.

Stigmatizing Language & Alternatives

In this section you’ll find suggestions of what to do in situations you may encounter with people experiencing homelessness. There are steps you can take and contact information for supports and resources. This list is not exhaustive but covers the most common situations.

what to do if...

Recommendations for business owners & employees:

You have the right to call emergency services if someone is causing trouble at your workplace.

There are also non-emergency options to help prevent conflicts, build trust and understanding, and set an example for your staff, customers, or colleagues to treat everyone with dignity and respect.

211 is a great resource to connect people with supports.

It’s important to trust your instincts. If a situation feels aggressive, threatening, or escalates, call 911.

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our region today

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