The housing crisis is deep in Western Nova Scotia.

According to a report through the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, 672 people, including 166 children under 16 are experiencing some type of homelessness.

The count was done in November for areas in the Tri-Counties, Lunenburg, Queens and the Valley.

Report author Dr. Mary Sweatman of Acadia University says it’s an under-estimation.

“You have to be connected to a service in order to be included in this study. We know there are people who aren’t connected to a service, or wouldn’t have been in contact with a service provider in the month of November,” said Dr. Sweatman.

She’s made a series of recommendations to the province, including more central access for services and more emergency sheltering options.

“We weren’t surprised to see the results, however the numbers are rising, not only here but across Nova Scotia.” She says.

“More people in different demographics are experiencing homelessness, from youth and seniors to those who are employed.”

Dr. Sweatman is also recommending legislation to make housing a right.

She adds that talks are happening with local housing coalitions.