Homelessness in Canada
Homelessness in Canada refers to the condition of individuals and families lacking stable, permanent, and adequate housing, and includes both visible forms of homelessness (such as living in shelters or public spaces) and less visible forms such as crisis accommodation, couch surfing, or living in unsafe or overcrowded conditions. The Canadian government housing policies and programs in place throughout the 1970s were based on a concept of shelter as a basic need or requirement for survival and of the obligation of government and society to provide adequate housing for everyone.