The City of Timmins is confronting significant public backlash following its decision to establish a permanent homeless encampment at a remote, former industrial site. The controversial choice, announced in mid-December 2025, has sparked a heated debate about the location's suitability and the city's approach to addressing its homelessness crisis.
A Controversial Location Selection
Municipal officials have designated a former sawmill property as the sanctioned location for a permanent homeless encampment. This site, situated away from the city's core residential and commercial areas, was selected to provide a dedicated space for individuals experiencing homelessness. However, the decision has been met with fierce criticism from various community members and advocates who argue the location is too isolated.
Critics contend that placing the encampment in a remote area cuts off residents from essential services, support networks, and potential employment opportunities. The distance from downtown Timmins could hinder access to healthcare, social services, and community integration programs, potentially exacerbating the challenges faced by the encampment's future residents.
Community Safety and Shelter Relocation Concerns
Parallel to the encampment announcement, reports from a Spruce Street resident have highlighted ongoing safety concerns related to homelessness in the community. These reports underscore the complex and urgent nature of the housing issue in Timmins, illustrating the pressure on the city to find effective solutions.
In a related development, the city's primary shelter, Living Space, may soon be relocated. The Cochrane district is actively searching for a new site to house the Timmins homeless shelter, indicating a broader reshuffling of how the city manages its housing and support services. This potential move adds another layer of transition and uncertainty for the vulnerable population relying on these services.
Broader Context and Municipal Response
The encampment decision occurs amidst other local initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens. These include the opening of a DIY Community Health centre and a new program designed to help homeless individuals focus on personal goals and securing housing. Furthermore, Timmins recently gained access to a Health Canada-approved drug checking service, and its hospital received additional harm reduction funding.
Despite these supportive measures, the choice of a remote encampment site remains a flashpoint. Proponents of the plan likely argue it provides a controlled environment and reduces conflicts in more populated neighborhoods. However, opponents stress that solutions must be compassionate, integrated, and focused on long-term housing stability rather than isolation. The city now faces the challenge of implementing its plan while addressing the substantial community concerns that have arisen.
The situation in Timmins reflects a larger struggle faced by many Northern Ontario communities as they grapple with rising homelessness, limited resources, and the search for humane, practical solutions during a nationwide housing crisis.
