Community Investment Fund targets ‘health, well-being’
From helping residents struggling with mental health to supporting human trafficking victims, 194 projects and initiatives delivered by 98 community agencies received about $8.5 million in funding in 2023 through the York Region Community Investment Fund.
“The fund’s support of almost 200 projects in 2023 makes a remarkable impact to top priority areas like housing stability, mental health, food security and enhancing organizations delivering these programs,” says Town of Newmarket Mayor John Taylor.
The Community Investment Fund invests in local initiatives delivered by not-for-profit community agencies and other partners. Those initiatives target gaps in the delivery of human services, complement or enhance Regional programs and deliver on policy priorities set by Regional Council.
According to a recent update, $3.1 million was allocated to wrap up projects that were continued throughout the pandemic period delivering a range of supports and services and $1.2 million was allocated to projects to help residents with mental health concerns made worse by the pandemic.
About $527,000 was went to projects to help residents find and keep stable housing; $764,360 went to projects to help residents to have positive mental health; nearly $419,000 targeted improving access to food and strengthening the local food security system; and $1.1 million went to capacity building in community agencies. An additional $1.3 million was allocated to support various critical community needs, including support for crime victims and human trafficking survivors.
More than 70,000 residents benefitted from programs and services funded by the Community Investment Fund last year. For example, more than 700 residents received services to improve economic security, including employment attainment and retention. Housing stability supports were provided to more than 4,300 residents, including housing search assistance, basic needs provisions and community referrals for people experiencing homelessness.
Access to food was provided to more than 31,500 residents through school-based student nutrition programs, food distribution to local food banks and emergency food services. Assistance was provided to more than 7,600 residents to reduce the impact of crime, trauma and tragic circumstance.
“York Region understands the value of investments in human services and the immense return we see when our community thrives,” says City of Vaughan Regional Councillor Gino Rosati, Chair of Community and Health Services. “We look forward to continually enhancing support for community health and well-being.”
To learn more about the Community Investment Fund, including additional details on the 2023 activity results and the 2024 Funded Projects and Initiatives, visit york.ca/CommunityInvestment.