Wilfrid Laurier University expert alert: Homelessness

May 29, 2026
For Immediate Release

WATERLOO — Homelessness has become one of the most urgent and visible challenges facing communities locally and across Canada. Wilfrid Laurier University researchers are available to comment on issues related to homelessness.

Laurier recently published the feature story “Myths vs. realities of homelessness: A fact check with Laurier experts” in which the experts listed below formed a panel to address common misperceptions about homelessness.

The university also recently distributed a news release about researchers leading the development of learning materials focused on homelessness for secondary schools across Canada.

The following list highlights Laurier experts currently available for comment though it does not reflect the full range of expertise across the university. For a comprehensive inventory of Laurier’s faculty researchers, consult the Experts at Laurier database.

• Erin Dej: Homelessness; criminalizing homelessness; homelessness prevention; NIMBYism (not in my backyard).
• Maritt Kirst: Homelessness; accessible healthcare and social services; care programs for patients with complex needs; health equity and inequality; mental health and addictions; substance abuse.
• Laura Pin: Homelessness; housing; municipal politics and policy; poverty in rural-urban fringe communities; social inequality.