How a budding entertainment producer became homeless in Ontario in a system he calls 'inhumane'
CBC
A few years ago, Shannon Robert Burt had a job, a college certificate and a dream: to become a producer in the entertainment industry.
But by late 2017, a series of unexpected events — divorce, a concussion and worsening mental health — changed the course of the Kitchener, Ont., man's life.
For the past three years, he's been homeless.
Burt lost a temporary home on Nov. 26 as he was among the people who had set up camp behind a bus shelter in the city, an encampment evicted by regional officials. A front-end loader was used to remove people's belongings, including those of the 41-year-old.
His story highlights the intersection between mental illness, addiction and unstable housing — and the lack of support for people across Waterloo region who are struggling with all three issues.
Described as a "kind and bright man" by his mother, Burt completed a certificate in radio broadcasting. His first shot at college didn't work out, but he was determined to create a future as a producer.
"I'm an entertainer," he said.
But shortly after his divorce, he suffered a serious concussion that he said exacerbated his anger issues and mental illness. He was already living with bipolar disorder.
As a result, he said, his drug addiction worsened and during this period, he was in a state of complete "blackout."
He couldn't make rent and got evicted three years ago from the place he moved into on his own.
Burt has been unhoused ever since, grappling with a crystal meth addiction and health issues while trying to survive in a system that he said is constantly failing him.
Burt doesn't have many housing options as he's been removed from several local shelters due to bad behaviour.
"They failed me," he said.
A regional spokesperson said keeping clients and staff in the shelter system safe is a priority.
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