Featured Collection in York University Libraries on complexities facing people experiencing homelessness

In recognition of World Homeless Day on Oct. 10, Complex Communities and York University Libraries have partnered to present a featured collection from Oct. 5 to 15 highlighting the complexities of homelessness and fostering greater awareness and understanding of the experiences of those affected. 

World Homeless Day, observed annually on Oct. 10, raises awareness of the experiences and needs of people facing homelessness, promotes local solutions, and encourages community action around the world. This featured collection highlights print and electronic materials from the library’s collections on homelessness, mental health and well-being to foster greater understanding of these critical issues and support teaching, learning, and research in these areas. We invite you to browse the book display on the first floor of Scott Library, along with our virtual display. 

In addition to the books and resources on display, this featured collection will showcase a recent Photovoice project developed by TNG Community Services. Photovoice is a qualitative research method that uses participant-generated photographs and personal narratives to transform lived experiences into actionable knowledge. TNG’s project, What Does 24 Hours Look Like When You’re Experiencing Homelessness?, reflects the organization’s commitment to addressing the stigma and discrimination faced by people experiencing homelessness and amplifying their voices through storytelling and research. 

It’s easy to assume the answer is dark and grim and that the only light at the end of the tunnel is daybreak, a hot cup of coffee, or a shower at the drop-in. Scary, stressful, lonely, dangerous: all apt words to describe the realities of being marginally or precariously housed. But they are also limiting descriptors, ones that flatten people into stereotypes and leave little room for curiosity, complexity, or empathy. 

Stigma is everywhere, and few experience it more acutely than those living outside traditional social norms. 

Over the course of three weeks, seven participants from TNG Community Services’ Urban Health and Homelessness Services drop-in used 35mm disposable cameras to document their daily lives through photography. The project invited participants to capture the mundane, the joyful, the gritty and the deeply personal; moments that assert presence, permanence, and the undeniable right to take up space. 

Photography became both an act of creativity and an act of resistance. 

A leader in the social services sector in Toronto, The Neighbourhood Group helps more than 45,000 low-income people and families in 30 locations across Toronto. With more than 1,000 staff and the support of over 900 volunteers, our free programs and services address the most pressing issues in our community: poverty, homelessness, mental health, unemployment, social isolation, substance abuse, conflict resolution, violence, youth alienation, and the settlement of newcomers.  

This project was important to me because others have interest to see what I see. I grew up in the system. I only have my daughter and my other ones don’t talk to me and everyone is scarce. That you guys to show interest in me is great. I hope others seeing these pictures will have empathy and humbleness. I’d like people to put my shoes on for 24 hours, let’s see how hard it is in each other’s lives, so we can respect one another.  – TNGCS Photovoice participant 

Our heartfelt thanks to TNG Community Services and its community for sharing this powerful Photovoice project and amplifying the voices and experiences of people facing homelessness. 

A special thank you to York University Libraries and especially to the Collections Engagement Group, for their work in bringing this featured collection to life. 

For more information about Complex Communities, reach out!  ComplexC@yorku.ca