BARRIE, ONTARIO, JUNE 30, 2011—Families and individuals in Ontario working towards building a stronger future for themselves are getting help from the Government of Canada. Mr. Patrick Brown, Member of Parliament for Barrie, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.
“Our government is giving a hand-up to Canadians with housing needs and is helping those seeking to break free from the cycle of homelessness and poverty,” said Mr. Brown. “We are pleased to support the United Way of Greater Simcoe County in its efforts to find local solutions to local problems. By working together, we are creating community projects and partnerships to improve and create services and facilities for homeless and at-risk individuals.”
“This initiative is about empowering families and grassroots agencies to build stronger communities, which is at the heart of what we do,” said Alison Pickard, CEO of United Way of Greater Simcoe County. “Our research has shown homelessness to be a significant issue for this region, as it is for many other areas of Ontario, so this federal funding is a very valuable step forward. We are delighted to take a leadership role in maximizing the government’s community investment.”
The United Way of Greater Simcoe County is receiving Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) funding of over $3.2 million that it will distribute to local organizations for the development of housing and support services for homeless and at-risk individuals in Barrie, as well as in rural and remote areas of Ontario. This represents $2,817,864 in HPS Rural and Remote Homelessness funding and $412,338 in HPS Designated Communities funding.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ann Matejicka
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills
Development Canada
819-994-5559
As of June 20, 2011, a total of 1 745 approved projects totalling over $633 million were funded under the HPS to prevent and reduce homelessness in Canada.
The HPS provides structures and supports that help people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless achieve self-sufficiency and full participation in society. This model seeks to address homelessness by working in partnership with the provinces and territories, other federal departments, as well as with communities and the private and not-for-profit sectors.
The availability of safe and stable housing and related supports is an important element in addressing homelessness and helping individuals who are homeless achieve greater self‑sufficiency and a better quality of life. The Government’s investments are creating jobs, stimulating local economies and improving the quality of life for many Canadians.
By working with all our partners, we will maximize results to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable Canadians. The Homelessness Partnering Strategy provides the support that our community partners are seeking.
The Homelessness Partnering Strategy uses a housing-first approach, recognizing that the first step is to provide individuals with transitional and supportive housing.
For more information on the Homelessness Partnering Strategy and the seven funding streams, please visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/homelessness.
