Thunder Bay may join Canadian communities with temporary villages that help ease rise in encampments [Video]

Erland Missewace says if the City of Thunder Bay, Ont., goes forward with creating a temporary village for the unhoused population, he would finally get a sense of safety.

City council approved a new 10-step plan earlier this week to respond to the growing number of people in encampments, which peaked at about 200 this summer.

Part of the plan includes the possible creation of a temporary village, a concept that’s seen success in other Canadian communities. Under Thunder Bay’s plan, there may be up to 100 units where people would have access to hygiene facilities and on-site support.

Missewace, who’s been without a permanent home for three years, is a member of Eabametoong First Nation and grew up in Thunder Bay. He used to live in an encampment and is now sleeping at an overnight shelter.

During the day, he goes to People Advocating for Change Through Empowerment (PACE), …