Research and Policy
Diving deep into the heart of Hamilton’s challenges, we at SPRC Hamilton recognize the profound power of research and policy. It’s not just in our name, it’s in our DNA. Our dedicated approach to research and policy analysis is a testament to our commitment to the community.
Every day, numerous Hamiltonians confront complex societal challenges. Our initiatives aim to address this head-on, seeking solutions that are both lasting and impactful. Through meticulous research and forward-thinking policy analysis, we:
- Champion the cause of equity, ensuring every Hamiltonian has a fair chance at success.
- Shape policies and planning decisions backed by complex data and compelling narratives.
- Boost community involvement, fostering a sense of belonging and collective responsibility.
- Strive relentlessly to uplift the social conditions, making Hamilton a place where everyone thrives.
Join us as we work toward a more equitable, informed, and engaged Hamilton.
Where’s the Exit?
New research report from SPRC Hamilton:Where’s the Exit? Persistence of poverty in Hamilton and Ontario, 1992–2023 Along with annual snapshot data that show rates of poverty overall in a community,...
Community Benefits Framework – Understanding the Need
The Community Benefits Framework – Understanding the Need report provides a data‑driven foundation to guide Hamilton’s development of a Community Benefits Framework (CBF). Using 2021 Census data and...
Disability and Demographics: Profile of Persons with Activity Limitations in Hamilton
Using 2021 Census data on activity limitations, this new report explores types of disability, demographics like ages, gender, immigration status, and further characteristics such as housing, income,...
Climate Justice Framework Engagement Summary Report
In August 2025, the City of Hamilton engaged the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton (SPRC), along with other partnering organizations, to conduct a series of community engagements to...
A Province That Forgot: The Case for transforming Ontario’s Personal Needs Allowance to bring dignity to Residential Care Facility tenants in Hamilton and beyond
This is the first-ever report dedicated to Personal Needs Allowance (PNA), a hidden part of Ontario’s social assistance system. At only $149/month and frozen since 2019, the PNA is the only personal...
Indecent Social Assistance in Hamilton and Ontario
New data shows more single people are excluded from Ontario's post-pandemic economy Scroll down to view this report Or download a simple PDF view of this webpage Growing homelessness including...
Volunteer Advisory Committees (VAC) Review
In July 2023, Hamilton City Council tasked the Government Relations and Community Engagement Division with reviewing the City’s Volunteer Advisory Committees (VACs). Partnering with the Social...
Hamilton’s Housing Crisis: Financialization Overview
SPRC and the Hamilton Community Legal Clinic (HCLC) jointly submitted to the National Housing Council’s Review Panel on the Financialization of Purpose Built Rental Housing in August 2023. As two...
Hamilton Post-Pandemic Emergency Shelter Size Review: Key Findings
In June 2022, the City of Hamilton Housing Services Division selected the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton to conduct a post-pandemic review of the size of the emergency shelter...
Open Letter to the City of Hamilton on the Proposed Encampment Protocol
June 30, 2023 Michelle BairdDirector of Housing ServicesCity of Hamilton71 Main St WestHamilton, ONL8P 4Y5 [via email] Dear Ms. Baird: RE: Open Letter to the City of Hamilton on the Proposed...