Homelessness ‘a serious and growing issue’
At a time when homelessness is a “serious and growing issue,” investments in critical social infrastructure made over the past two years are making a “positive difference” but more funding and work is needed.
“Actions funded through these investments are making a positive difference,” York Region Chairman and CEO Eric Jolliffe says of an update York Regional Council recently received from the Commissioner of Community and Health Services.
“By expanding our support systems and increasing housing options, we are building strong, caring and safer communities,” he says. “However, addressing these complex challenges requires ongoing investments and a focus on long-term solutions from all levels of government.”
Investments concentrated on program areas experiencing increased demand for service across the Region, targeting specific areas of need and implemented quickly. Key achievements include homelessness support, which includes providing additional seasonal shelter beds and year-round support for people experiencing homelessness.
Other achievements include housing development and contributing to Regional housing priorities and funding two non-profit providers to provide more affordable rental options. The Region has also provided funding to 31 community agencies which delivered 47 community services to residents, including mental health support, assistance for victims of crime, tragic circumstance or human trafficking, and other essential services
“Homelessness is a serious and growing issue in York Region. We are seeing a rise in the need for supports to help people without a home or at risk of losing their home,” says Vaughan Regional Councillor Gino Rosati, Chair of Community and Health Services. “We remain committed to finding solutions to support individuals facing homelessness with a respectful approach and wrap-around supports to allow them to move forward successfully.”
Funding to support critical social infrastructure projects are a result of Regional Council’s February 2023 approval to direct an additional $12.8 million annually for the remainder of this term of Council, the Region reports. Those initiatives were made possible through a combination of municipal funding and provincial grants. Funding has been confirmed for more than 85 per cent of the full investment. Ongoing advocacy will identify a sustainable funding source for the remaining amount, it adds.
The Region says the additional funding aligns with the York Region Strategic Plan and helps meet priorities identified in the 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan, as well as the 2024-2027 Homelessness Service System Plan, Community Safety and Well-being Plan and Community Investment Fund. For more information, visit york.ca/support.