The City of St. Thomas earned national recognition last week for its ongoing efforts to end homelessness.
Mayor Joe Preston and Danielle Neilson, Acting Director of St. Thomas-Elgin Social Services, received awards at the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness 2026 National Conference on Ending Homelessness in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Manitoba.
Over the past three years, St. Thomas-Elgin has reduced overall homelessness by nearly 50 per cent and achieved functional zero veteran homelessness. Results that demonstrate the impact of strong municipal leadership and community partnerships.
Something Neilson referred to as, “A tremendous determination to solve homelessness.”
She was presented with the Individual Impact Award.
The national recognition reflects the collective efforts of the City of St. Thomas, Elgin County, St. Thomas-Elgin Social Services and other community partners working together to develop innovative and sustainable housing solutions.
Neilson pointed out, “Other communities are reaching out to us. And part of what I’ve started to make sure and pay more attention to when I’m speaking with other communities is that it does take time.”
Preston was the recipient of the Municipal Leadership Award, which recognizes his commitment to making housing, homelessness and community well-being key priorities for the city. He credited the partnerships the city has established with organizations like Indwell, the YWCA and Eastwood Housing.
The city has moved beyond simply managing homelessness to building a coordinated system focused on prevention, affordable and supportive housing and services that help individuals achieve long-term housing stability and independence.
Preston added, “The other thing we’ve done in this community is really looked after economic development. We’ve attracted a couple of big industries and more to come that offer good, high-paying jobs.”
The inaugural National Homelessness Reduction Awards recognized six individuals and organizations from across Canada for their contributions to ending homelessness.
Written by Ian McCallum
