At the Calgary Drop-In Centre, we made a very conscious choice in 2018 to become a housing-focused emergency shelter. Every program and service we offer is intended to lead to a positive housing outcome. Since that time, we've housed over 4,000 people, 70% of whom are in private market housing without a rental subsidy and have been able to maintain their housing. Our return-to-shelter rate has been less than 5% since that time.
A fundamental shift as we look at homeless services across the country is to ensure that every program and service is aimed at a positive housing outcome that can be maintained for people. We need to recognize that it might not always stick the first time, but it's about getting clear on the individual needs and matching them to appropriate housing with relevant supports for the time they need them. Moreover, we need to recognize that everyone who's experienced an episode of homelessness does not necessarily need supportive housing and that CAA should really be considered a last resort for many.