The Federal Housing Advocate is calling the Region of Waterloo out over its plan to evict people living at the 100 Victoria Street encampment by the end of November. The open letter, from Marie-Josée Houle, said municipalities like Waterloo Region “have obligations to respect, protect and fulfill human rights, and to adopt a human rights-based approach to encampments.” It suggested further engagement with those living in encampments and help with housing. “Let’s say you’re living in an encampment, and you’re approached by the region that says, the decision has already been made, the bylaw has already been passed, and this is what it’s going to mean for you and we want to engage with you, it’s too late,” Houle said. Houle added working with people after the eviction notice has already been issued is missing the point. “What it means is that no matter what you say it’s not important and that’s not what adequate or meaningful engagement means,” said Houle The Federal Housing Advocate is an independent, nonpartisan watchdog tasked with addressing inadequate housing and homelessness in Canada. It is an unelected position that does not carry legislative or legal authority. People have been living on the vacant property, located at the corner of Victoria Street and Weber Street in Kitchener, since early 2022. A previous eviction attempt by the region was blocked by the courts. The judge said it was a breach of the charter rights, unless the region could provide an adequate housing alternative. The property is owned by the Region of Waterloo and is needed for the construction of a new transit terminal at the corner of Victoria Street and King Street. In a statement, the Region of Waterloo called their engagement with the residents both supportive and accommodating. “Region staff and partners continue to support residents at the encampment,” it read. “This includes regular supports provided by outreach staff, connections with Ontario Works caseworkers, providing regular cleaning and maintenance of the site, hiring pest control, portable washrooms, lighting, and other health and safety interventions.” The region also said they are actively working to find encampment residents adequate housing options. “Between April 16 and July 2, 2025, the region supported 13 people off the site. who were residing there prior to April 16, 2025, with an approach consistent with the region’s Plan to End Chronic Homelessness.” According to Houle, the open letter is not meant to name and shame the Region, but it’s an invitation to work together. “It really is about hoping to engage with them, hoping that they will respond and get in touch with my office so that we can discuss their obligations, but also help them get on the best path forward so that it’ll end up with better outcomes for everyone involved,” Houle said. The bylaw upholding the November eviction remains in place, but the Region of Waterloo is seeking further direction from the Superior Court of Justice. A hearing has been set for Nov. 19 to Nov. 21. More to come.
