COVID-19 Response Framework for People Experiencing Homelessness

Homelessness, Risk Stratification, Testing Protocols

This guide written by physician and public health experts provides specific recommendations for providing front-line support for the homeless on Covid 19 testing, surveillance, communication, risk stratification, providing isolation shelters and cohorting Covid 19 positive cases in community-based shelters.

Due to the unique circumstances of serving people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness, service providers should connect with their respective provincial or territorial public health authorities to ensure that any measures taken to effectively service this extremely vulnerable population are in line with the service standard levels required by the province or territory, while continuing to meet the needs of this group, per this guiding document.

    How to use this resource:

    • Facilitate discussion about the unique needs of those experiencing homelessness during a pandemic and how best to support their immediate health needs
    • Develop best-practices for support programs and shelters
    • Develop policies to support front-line organizations and support workers

    References

    Resource: Public Health Agency of Canada guidance on case and contact management
    Resource: Public Health Agency of Canada guidance on vulnerable populations and COVID-19
    Resource: Public Health Agency of Canada guidance on isolating in the home or co-living setting
    Resource: Public Health Agency of Canada guidance on educating staff on protection from potential COVID-19 cases