General News

Simcoe County releases homelessness prevention strategy

June 15, 2023   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The County of Simcoe is implementing a 10-point strategy designed to assist with the prevention of homelessness across the region.

This plan provides a strong, data-driven strategy to help vulnerable residents and communities.

Included in the strategy is an increased investment toward preventing and ending chronic homelessness.

The goals identified in the 10-point strategy use proven methods to create a safer community for all, with the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness at the forefront, according to the County of Simcoe. 

The plan takes a collaborative approach to building up communities, service providers, the business community, and residents from all walks of life.

The strategy makes affordable housing more attainable by increasing supply, creating “deep rent subsidies,” increasing eviction prevention services and improving available shelter.

It commits the County of Simcoe to finding new housing opportunities, enhancing community shelter services and standards, and improving safety and well-being throughout the community.

“This is an important and forward thinking strategy that is informed by our data and feedback received from area partners,” said County Warden Basil Clarke. “This plan builds up our communities with specific and measurable goals that can be achieved in a relatively short period of time. It creates opportunities for those experiencing homelessness in our community to move forward through the housing continuum. I am incredibly proud that this new 10-point strategy will contribute to building up the lives of unhoused residents across the region in this time of increased need.”

With additional funding support provided by the province this year, the County is taking significant action, including making affordable housing more attainable to end homelessness, creating new supportive housing programs, creating peace of mind when using services, and improving safety and well-being for the community as a whole.

It will also increase housing availability in current programs, create easier ways to help access services, enhance community shelter services and standards, and increase eviction prevention services and access to housing for families.

This investment and support strategy was approved by the province and has received initial endorsement from the County of Simcoe’s Committee of the Whole.

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