Statement from Mayor Kevin Davis regarding discovery of encampment deaths

BRANTFORD ON: On behalf of Brantford City Council and City staff, I extend my deepest sympathies to all those impacted by the recent discovery of two deceased individuals in an encampment in Brantford. My heart goes out to our fellow community members’ families and loved ones at this very difficult time.  

Sadly, although the City’s exceptionally dedicated Homelessness Response Team works tirelessly to help individuals in encampments find alternate shelter, we may not always be aware of every encampment in the city. The City of Brantford has an encampment response team comprised of highly trained outreach workers who are supported, when needed, by members of the Brantford Police Service and the Brantford Brant Paramedic Service as well as other community partners. Once made aware that an encampment has been established, the response team works closely with the individuals who are living in encampments to help connect them with resources and safe shelter. 

If residents become aware of an encampment on either their property or on adjacent property, I strongly urge you to report it to the City right away by calling 519-759-4150 or emailing customercontact@brantford.ca.

When community members notify us about newly formed encampments, we can provide support to individuals experiencing homelessness and connect them with shelter and resources. Since the City’s encampment response team was formed in 2023, we have assisted over 190 individuals to find safety, shelter, and services. I also encourage any resident who has a family member, friend, or loved one who is experiencing homelessness or at risk of experiencing homelessness to contact the Emergency Sheltering Intake Service which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The Emergency Sheltering Intake Service, operated by SOAR Community Services, can be reached at 1-888-621-0034 or by emailing housing@soarcs.com.

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Media contact:

Maria Visocchi | Director, Communications, Community Engagement and Customer Service 
City of Brantford | 519-759-4150 ext. 5754 | mvisocchi@brantford.ca

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