Ontario Funds Over $5 Million In Program For People Experiencing Homelessness

The Ontario Government has invested $5,164,300 in Peterborugh for their new Homeless Prevention Program to help anyone experiencing or at-risk of homelessness announced on Tuesday.

Sheldon Laidman, City of Peterborough commissioner of community services (left); MPP Dave Smith (middle) and Coun. Keith Riel (right) outside Peterborough City Hall where the announcement was made. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

It launches on April 1 that combines the Community Homelessness Prevention Initiative, Home for Good and the Strong Communities Rent Supplement Program.

Service managers will have more flexibility to target funding where it is needed and allow for greater financial accountability by measuring their progress in reducing and preventing homelessness according to MPP Dave Smith.

“Addressing homelessness is a complex issue and one key component is the personal relationship before social workers and outreach workers and their clients,” said MPP Dave Smith. “The new program is easier, streamlined and client-focused.”

The streamlined program plans to help anyone with resources find a place to live.

Access to the funding is based on a “by-name list” that meets provincial requirements while containing accessible information for anyone needing the program to be connected with local support.

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