New data from End Homelessness Winnipeg (EHW) shows that 8,248 people are currently living without stable housing in Winnipeg, underscoring the growing scale and urgency of the city’s humanitarian crisis.
The figure is based on the Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS) By-Name List as of March 31, 2026. It represents people across Winnipeg who are experiencing homelessness — staying in shelters, moving between temporary spaces, or living unsheltered — often without a clear pathway to permanent housing.
“This data should concern all Winnipeggers,” said EHW CEO Jennifer Moore Rattray. “Behind every number is a person – a relative – facing instability, and the system is under increasing strain.”
The By-Name List is a real-time, person-specific dataset used by homelessness-serving agencies across Winnipeg to coordinate access to housing and supports. As part of the city’s Coordinated Access system, it helps prioritize individuals based on level of need and connect them to appropriate housing interventions. The challenge is that there is not enough deeply affordable and supportive housing.
Of the 8,248 individuals identified, 4,463 are experiencing chronic homelessness, meaning they have been homeless for at least six months in the past year or have experienced repeated episodes over several years. This marks an increase of 104 people in just one month, and since February 28, 2026, when 4,359 individuals were reported as chronically homeless.
“People experiencing chronic homelessness often face complex challenges, including health issues and barriers to income and housing. These challenges that are becoming more severe as the crisis deepens,” said Executive Director Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre Tammy Christensen.
The data shows sustained and increasing pressure on Winnipeg’s homelessness response system. While efforts to move people into housing continue, the number of individuals entering homelessness is outpacing those securing stable housing. This imbalance is leading to longer periods of homelessness and a rising number of people becoming chronically homeless.
The By-Name List reflects only those who are known to and engaged with homelessness-serving organizations. It does not capture individuals who are not connected to services, meaning the true number of people experiencing homelessness in Winnipeg is likely higher.
These findings highlight the urgent need for coordinated action across all levels of government, alongside community partners and Indigenous service providers. Increased access to housing, expanded supports, and sustained investment in prevention — including eviction prevention, income supports, and early intervention — are critical to reducing the number of people entering homelessness.
End Homelessness Winnipeg continues to work with governments and direct service providers to track trends, coordinate responses, and support pathways out of homelessness. Every month, EHW will be sharing data updates to inform all those working to end homelessness.