Understanding Strathmore’s Social Challenges and Opportunities
Strathmore is facing growing social and economic pressures as its population increases. Challenges related to housing affordability, mental health, addiction, poverty, and community safety have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing economic uncertainties.
This Social Needs Assessment, prepared by HelpSeeker Technologies for the Town of Strathmore, provides a data-driven analysis of community needs, service gaps, and strategic recommendations. The report emphasizes housing stability, mental health resources, economic pressures, and the need for stronger social infrastructure.
Key Findings: Social Needs and Community Priorities
1. Housing Affordability and Homelessness Are Growing Concerns
- 21% of households in Strathmore are in core housing need, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing.
- 50% of surveyed individuals experiencing housing insecurity were living in situations defined as homeless or at high risk of eviction.
- Rental costs are rising, and a shortage of low-income and senior housing is increasing instability for vulnerable populations.
2. Mental Health and Addiction Services Are Lacking
- Emergency department visits related to mental health and substance use are higher in Strathmore than the Alberta average.
- Opioid overdoses have increased, with a lack of local detox and treatment facilities forcing individuals to seek services outside the community.
- Indigenous residents reported significant barriers to culturally appropriate mental health care.
3. Economic Pressures Are Affecting Wellbeing
- The cost of living is a major concern, with inflation increasing financial stress on families.
- Lone-parent households, seniors, and Indigenous families are disproportionately affected by income insecurity and rising costs.
- Unemployment and underemployment remain challenges, particularly for young adults and newcomers.
4. Youth and Families Need Greater Support
- Mental health challenges, bullying, and discrimination were identified as top concerns among youth.
- Families are struggling with childcare affordability and availability, limiting workforce participation for parents.
- Recreational and extracurricular programs exist, but financial and transportation barriers prevent full access.
5. Community Safety Concerns Are Increasing
- Crime increased by 22% from 2021 to 2022, with a 59% increase in spousal abuse cases.
- Residents cited rising concerns about public safety, substance abuse, and violence.
- More resources are needed to address domestic violence prevention and intervention.
Strategic Recommendations for a Stronger Social Infrastructure
1. Expand Affordable and Supportive Housing
- Develop long-term supportive housing to reduce homelessness and housing instability.
- Increase rental assistance and affordable housing programs, especially for low-income families, seniors, and Indigenous populations.
- Address "renovictions" and rising rental costs through policy and financial supports.
2. Strengthen Mental Health and Addiction Services
- Establish a local detox and treatment center to reduce reliance on out-of-town services.
- Expand low-barrier mental health and addiction support programs, particularly for youth and Indigenous residents.
- Increase community-based harm reduction initiatives to address substance use disorders.
3. Enhance Economic Supports and Workforce Development
- Expand employment and training programs, focusing on young adults, single parents, and newcomers.
- Increase financial assistance for childcare, enabling parents to remain in the workforce.
- Strengthen collaborations between local businesses, educational institutions, and social services to create employment pathways.
4. Invest in Family and Youth Services
- Develop youth-focused mental health programs and peer support initiatives.
- Expand accessible childcare and after-school programs to support working families.
- Address bullying and discrimination through community-led education and inclusion initiatives.
5. Improve Community Safety and Violence Prevention
- Enhance domestic violence prevention programs, including crisis response and survivor supports.
- Increase police-community partnerships to address crime, gang activity, and drug-related violence.
- Implement neighborhood safety initiatives, such as increased lighting, surveillance, and public engagement strategies.
Conclusion: A Call for Coordinated Action
Strathmore is at a critical moment where rising social challenges require immediate, coordinated action. By investing in housing, mental health services, economic supports, and youth and family programs, Strathmore can:
- Reduce housing instability and homelessness.
- Improve mental health and addiction outcomes.
- Strengthen economic resilience for families and workers.
- Enhance public safety and community wellbeing.
For a detailed analysis of social needs, service gaps, and policy recommendations, read the full Strathmore Social Needs Assessment (March 2023).
Read Full Report:
https://hubs.ly/Q01Vm-wt0
