Posted On: November 11, 2025, Posted By: Emmy Kelly, NewmarketToday.com, Original Article.
In 1987, when homelessness numbers brought national shame, Finland decided it would never be acceptable for individuals to live on the streets. It was not just government policy — it became a point of national pride
I recently had the privilege of joining a learning tour to Finland with colleagues from across Canada, organized by the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association and the Chartered Institute of Housing. We went to see first-hand how Finland has become the only European country where homelessness has gone down year after year.
What struck me most in Finland was not the impressive statistics or policies, but the cultural conviction surrounding homelessness.
I asked, “What would happen if a family suddenly entered homelessness?”
In Canada, the answer is that families are connected to emergency housing while support is provided to help the family find new housing.
In Finland, our hosts looked at me in disbelief before replying firmly, “Our children will never be exposed to shelters. If a family is at risk, they are immediately placed in a home. That is our duty.”
That single exchange reveals the heart of Finland’s success.
Back in 1987, when homelessness numbers brought national shame, the country decided it would never be acceptable for individuals to live on the streets. It was not just government policy — it became a point of national pride.
The results are incredible. Finland has built 400,000 affordable homes — about 13 per cent of all housing in the country. The City of Helsinki requires that one-quarter of all new housing be affordable. With a goal of 25 per cent, they currently stand at 21 per cent.
Charitable organizations like the Y-Foundation (Y-Säätiö), created in 1985, now own nearly 20,000 affordable apartments. The NAL Youth Housing Association, started in 1971, provides more than 4,500 affordable homes with support for people aged 18 to 29.
The philosophy is simple but transformative: housing is a human right.
Finland shifted its investment away from large emergency shelters into permanent housing with supports as needed. Former shelters that once held hundreds of people have been turned into homes.
This commitment is not without challenges. Rising living costs, urban demand and recent funding cuts are testing the system.
But the foundation is strong, and the pride of citizens in ensuring everyone is housed remains unshaken.
The contrast with Canada is stark. Ottawa alone has more people experiencing homelessness than the entire country of Finland. That is not inevitable — it is the result of choices.
At Blue Door, we witness the urgency of homelessness every day. But what Finland teaches us is that no single organization can solve it alone — it takes shifts in perspectives, whole communities and a nation choosing to act.
I came home inspired but also challenged.
Finland has proven that homelessness is not an unsolvable crisis — it is a matter of will. Finland backed the right to housing with policy, funding and pride.
Finland chose to end homelessness. Canada can, too.