Supportive Housing of Waterloo (SHOW) was pleased to partner with students from Wilfrid Laurier University on a qualitative research project exploring local perceptions of supportive housing and the experiences, beliefs, and attitudes that shape community understanding. The project focused on examining how supportive housing is viewed at the neighborhood level and identifying opportunities to strengthen relationships between SHOW and the broader community.

Through interviews with local business owners, the research found that while supportive housing is widely recognized as an important response to homelessness—providing safety, stability, and access to supports—perceptions are often influenced by limited interaction, secondhand information, and broader societal stigma. Participants expressed a desire for more opportunities to connect directly with SHOW and learn more about the people, services, and supports that make supportive housing successful.

One of the strongest themes to emerge was the importance of connection. The report highlighted practical ways organizations like SHOW can continue building understanding through open dialogue, community engagement, education, and creating opportunities for neighbors and residents to interact. Recommendations included hosting open houses, increasing community communication, and sharing more regular updates about life at SHOW.

We are grateful to the Wilfrid Laurier students and everyone who contributed to this work. Understanding perceptions helps us grow—not only as a housing provider, but as a community partner. We invite you to read the full report to learn more about the findings and recommendations that will help inform future engagement efforts at SHOW.

You can read the full report HERE!