Homelessness within the COVID-19 Pandemic in Two Nova Scotian Communities

Abstract

Expanding the emergent literature on homelessness and the COVID-19 pandemic, this qualitative study presents a portrait of the homelessness sector in two Nova Scotian, Canadian communities: Halifax Regional Municipality and Cape Breton Regional Municipality. This research provides an understanding of the health and wellness of populations experiencing homelessness during the first waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, the processes involved in supporting populations experiencing homelessness during the pandemic, and determining what has worked, what has not, and required changes. The data will inform relevant emergency crises and disaster relief responses for those experiencing homelessness and those who are marginalized, vulnerable, and living on the fringes of society. What follows are the core themes, and lessons learned, along with recommendations that capture the narratives from a group of individuals experiencing homelessness throughout the pandemic and those tasked with developing, supporting, innovating, and funding the disaster responses in two Nova Scotian communities.