LONDON, Ontario — The Ontario government has successfully negotiated an agreement with the federal government to provide a combined $127 million through a fifth round of the Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF) that will add to rent banks, keep vulnerable Ontarians housed, and create long-term housing solutions in response to the increased need for services during COVID-19.
This includes $2,761,400 to the City of London, bringing London’s total SSRF allocation to $25.7 million.
“Our government’s Social Services Relief Fund is providing immediate housing and homelessness relief in communities across Ontario,” said Steve Clark, minister of municipal affairs and housing. “Supporting innovative solutions is critical as we work to keep our most vulnerable safe and housed, both during the pandemic and into the future.”
As highlighted in Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy, Wednesday’s announcement is part of the province’s Social Services Relief Fund, which has provided nearly $1.2 billion of support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This support will help municipalities and Indigenous program partners create longer-term housing solutions and help vulnerable Ontarians, including those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
The shortage of housing supply impacts all Ontarians, no matter their background or budget. The province’s ongoing work to increase the supply of market housing complements historic investments to increase the supply of supportive and affordable housing for the most vulnerable.
“I’m proud to say this City Council has prioritized our most vulnerable, and the issue of affordable housing, like no other in London’s history,” said Ed Holder, Mayor of the City of London. “Through it all, we have enjoyed phenomenal support from our Ontario Government partners, and this substantial investment is just the latest evidence of that shared commitment. Together, we are working to ensure all Londoners have access to proper accommodations and necessary supports. This goes beyond just housing, however. At its core, this is an issue that speaks to basic dignity, decency, and fairness. We are absolutely committed to delivering on those promises.”
“Our government is working every day to build a stronger Ontario that leaves nobody behind,” said Monte McNaughton, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex. “Today’s investment is fantastic news for Southwestern Ontario and ensures that the most vulnerable members of our community will have a roof over their heads and a place they can call home.”
The recently announced community housing regulatory framework under the Community Housing Renewal Strategy helps to protect essential community housing stock and ensure Ontario’s most vulnerable people remain housed. The government is working with service managers and housing providers to make community housing more efficient and sustainable.
