Ontario has made a new long-term commitment in the fight against chronic homelessness, with the announcement of $100 million in annual funding, starting in 2019. The money will be used for housing supports, including counselling and addiction services as well as programs where people can receive life skills training, with the goal of helping ensure that people struggling with addictions, disabilities or mental health issues become permanently housed. One fifth of that funding will be dedicated specifically to programs and services for indigenous people, who live off reservation. “The goal is to have indigenous organizations, housing organizations that really understand the needs of their communities and can provide accommodation in an environment, in a physical environment and a cultural environment and a spiritual environment, that meets the needs of their indigenous clients,” said Ontario Housing Minister Chris Ballard, describing that portion of the new funding. Ballard said the ministry will work with indigenous partners to select the organizations that will best deliver the services.

Source: thestar March 09, 2017 18:45 UTC