The Martinez Ferrada administration has introduced a new initiative, the Tactical Intervention Group on Homelessness (GITI), to address homelessness in Montreal.
In a recent press release, the city announced the establishment of GITI with the goal of enhancing coordination and support to tackle homelessness effectively. The initiative aims to provide sustainable solutions and improve the city’s response to the homelessness crisis, replacing the crisis unit formed in December 2025.
The GITI will consist of 12 permanent members from the Government of Quebec, the City of Montreal, and various institutional and community partners. The group’s primary focus will be on achieving predictability and implementing long-term strategies to address homelessness.
Martinez Ferrada emphasized the city’s commitment to prioritizing homelessness and transitioning from emergency responses to more structured and efficient actions through GITI. The group’s formation signifies a collective effort to collaborate with partners and deliver lasting solutions for Montrealers in need.
Chaired by Claude Pinard, GITI will convene every two weeks to enhance the coherence, agility, and effectiveness of interventions in the region. Pinard highlighted the group’s proactive approach, aiming for prevention over reaction to homelessness issues by leveraging expertise and resources for timely and impactful interventions.
The GITI members will work on identifying operational challenges, optimizing resource allocation, and managing risks, particularly during seasonal changes. As spring approaches, the group will focus on harmonizing interventions, increasing presence on the ground, and planning actions systematically to improve community coexistence and support individuals living in encampments.
Sam Watts, from the Welcome Mission, expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential to foster collaboration, implement practical solutions, and address the diverse needs of marginalized individuals and those at risk of homelessness.
The GITI will unveil various tools in the upcoming months, such as a metropolitan map of roaming services, seasonal planning strategies, a performance dashboard, and an integrated action plan. Additionally, the group will produce an annual report outlining progress, outcomes, and recommendations for policy enhancements and investments.
