A Foundation to Build On

A Foundation to Build On: An Evaluation of John Howard Society of Thunder Bay’s Residential Reintegration Program focuses on a transitional housing facility in Thunder Bay that supports individuals who are in conflict with the law and are either homeless or at-risk of being homeless. The evaluation was structured under a realist evaluation framework and aimed to contribute to Ontario’s 10-year plan to end chronic homelessness by illuminating what works for youth, women, and Indigenous Peoples leaving provincial correctional institutions. The evaluation examined the successes, challenges, and outcomes for individuals in securing housing in the community while bolstering independent living skills, and reducing their risks of homelessness and recidivism. The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on service delivery, the program, and the evaluation, which is outlined throughout the report.