New numbers suggest the percentage of homeless veterans in Manitoba is higher than the national average.
Employment and Social Development Canada conducted a study in March 2015. It identified 2,250 former soldiers who use shelters across Canada on a regular basis.
While provincial numbers are unknown, the agency said there’s some insight available based on shelter data.
The report shows 4.8 per cent of shelter users in Thompson, and 3.6 per cent of shelter users in Winnipeg, identified as veterans.
"These percentages are slightly higher than the national average of 2.7 per cent,” the agency said in a statement to CTV News.
The study was released to The Canadian Press under the Access to Information Act, and comes from a database that tracks 60 emergency shelters across the country.
The average age of homeless veterans is 52, compared with 37 in the general population.
Many ex-soldiers cite alcoholism, drug addiction and mental health issues as reasons for their circumstances.
Earlier this week, General Jonathan Vance, the country's top military commander, said he finds the numbers shocking.
He said National Defence and Veterans Affairs Canada need to focus more on veterans when they transition from a life in uniform to becoming a civilian.
Stories from Manitoba’s homeless veterans
Despite serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, and his experience as an engineer, 52-year-old David Lazaruk suddenly found himself without a warm place to sleep shortly after the New Year.
"It was quite devastating," said Lazaruk, who hopes to find a better living situation come Monday.
He wants to get a job soon; however, he said more supports for veterans are needed once they re-enter civilian life.
"I don't believe there is enough in place to help veterans. I still have to contact the Veterans Affairs for housing," he said Friday.
Right now, five veterans are staying at the Booth Centre’s emergency shelter.
Residential coordinator Mark Stewart said everything that can be done for veterans is offered at the centre, if patrons identify themselves when they register.
"They fought for our country, for people who are marginalized. So I believe they are dealing with a lot of shame," said Stewart.
Order of Manitoba recipient and veteran Joe Meconse, 74, was homeless for four years in the 1970s, after serving as peacekeeper in Cyprus.
He said the need for emergency shelter is often brought on by family problems.
"I was doing good when I was in the army. I got out and I got to drinking too much. I lost my dignity you know, and I considered myself a nothing, a nobody," he said.
Resources for Manitoba veterans
A spokesperson with 17 Wing said proper support mechanisms are in place, and finds the number of veterans experiencing homelessness surprising.
"People engaged in the military, prior to them leaving – they may have issues – but they are not released until those issues have been resolved," said Maj. Mike Lagace.
Lagace said the Military Family Resource Centre on base helps those in need, including veterans.
Dawn Golding, Executive Director with The Royal Canadian Legion Manitoba & Northwestern Ontario Command sent an email to CTV Friday stating:
“Provincial Command does participate in the legions Leave the Streets Behind Program and have successfully placed homeless veterans in our legion housing in Winnipeg. We also keep a furnished apartment available should an emergency situation arise and we have used poppy funds to keep veterans in their homes and off the streets.”
The Extent and Nature of Veteran Homelessness in Canada
