Created: Jun 05, 2025 07:59 AM
Street sleeper: the Chamber of Commerce says Bermuda is short of 2,500 homes (Photograph by Akil Simmons)
More than 1,100 people in Bermuda are now facing some form of homelessness, according to the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce.
To address the problem, the chamber is holding a forum on housing solutions next week at the Speciality Cinema and Grill in Hamilton.
The event promises a clear and honest look at Bermuda’s complex housing crisis.
“This is not just another conversation about the problem,” the chamber said. “This is where we work on the answers. Why is housing still such a problem, even as our population declines?”
Chamber president Marico Thomas and the Chamber economics committee will share fresh data and surprising facts that cut through the headlines, including:
• Bermuda’s average household size has dropped from 3.4 to two people, meaning Bermuda needs more homes for fewer people
• Bermuda is short an estimated 2,500 housing units
• New construction is averaging only seven units per month — at this pace, it would take 30 years to catch up
“This isn’t just about housing,” Mr Thomas said. “It is about workforce, healthcare, cost of living and our future as a community. We want the public to fully understand the scale of the issue, and to help us find real solutions.”
Two 90-minute sessions will be offered to accommodate anticipated demand and ensure broad participation. The morning session will be from 10am to 11.30am, and the afternoon session from 12.30pm to 2pm.
Each session will include an expert-led presentation followed by a focused question-and-answer session, designed to challenge assumptions, surface ideas and encourage open, cross-sector dialogue.
“This isn’t just another data presentation,” added Jennifer Woods, the chamber chief executive. “We are calling on Government, business leaders, young Bermudians, non-profits and community voices to engage in pragmatic, even uncomfortable conversations about what is working, what is not and where we go from here.”
To help ensure broad and purposeful participation, subsidised tickets will be available for persons in need. Light refreshments will be served.
Space is limited and early registration is encouraged.
Chamber member tickets are $35, and non-member tickets are $60. Reserve a seat on the chamber’s website.