Rising Homelessness Among Pregnant and Parenting Individuals in Canada

Recent data from Canada highlights a concerning rise in homelessness among pregnant and parenting people, posing serious health risks for both mothers and their children. A commentary published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal emphasizes that homelessness is a critical health crisis requiring immediate action. Experts like Drs. Nicole Racine and Stéphanie Manoni-Millar from the University of Ottawa and CHEO Research Institute stress that housing is a fundamental necessity for everyone. The increasing numbers of pregnant and parenting individuals experiencing homelessness put more children at risk of adverse health outcomes, including low birth weight, higher chances of neonatal intensive care, infections, and developmental challenges.

Between 2018 and 2022, homelessness in Canada grew by 20%, with 10% of those affected living as families. This trend underscores the urgent need for policies and programs that provide secure, affordable housing integrated with supportive health and mental health services. Such measures are essential to combat the effects of poverty, family breakdowns, and displacement faced by this vulnerable population.

The health implications are particularly severe for infants and young children. Research shows that babies born to homeless mothers often have lower birth weights, require neonatal intensive care more frequently, and are at increased risk for infections and developmental issues. Addressing this crisis involves increased federal and provincial funding, improved coordination among housing, social services, mental health, and healthcare providers, and the expansion of long-term support services.

The authors advocate for reducing service fragmentation through enhanced collaboration to ensure continuity of care for affected families. Implementing these strategies is crucial to mitigate the long-term health and developmental impacts of homelessness on this vulnerable group.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-homelessness-pregnant-parenting-people.html