At least 70 homeless Torontonians have died so far this year, most never reaching age 50, according to new figures that startled city hall decision-makers. If the city had used the same yardstick as last year — relying solely on city shelter information — only 24 deaths would be on the books so far this year. “Being homeless is absolutely a significant risk factor for early death,” in Toronto, de Villa said, while noting gaps in the data. “Nicole’s tent hangs in my office available to any woman that needs it,” said O’Connell, urging committee members to help keep people safe, and on track to permanent housing, by helping fund more beds and frontline staff including mental-health workers. He recalled a homeless person’s death many years ago was treated as major news, while most of this year’s 70 souls departed unremarked.

Source: thestar October 30, 2017 21:56 UTC