County providing affordable housing for vulnerable seniors in Barrie

The County of Simcoe is stepping up its efforts to help vulnerable seniors in Barrie find safe, affordable housing by funding 20 new domiciliary care spaces for individuals aged 55 and up who have experienced chronic homelessness.

The County has partnered with a local retirement residence to offer these spaces as part of its broader strategy to reduce homelessness, providing low-income individuals who cannot live on their own, but do not qualify for long-term care with a secure and supportive environment.

• Download the CTV News app to get local alerts on your device
• Get the latest local updates sent to your email inbox

“By funding 20 more domiciliary care spaces in this seniors’ residence, we are taking 20 people out of shelters or encampments, and giving them a permanent place to call home,” said Simcoe County Warden Basil Clarke. “These 20 new spaces will create a domino effect in our shelter system, freeing up shelter beds and encouraging more people to come inside during the coldest months of the year.”

The program will prioritize unhoused seniors in the Barrie area who need help with daily living activities, providing a structured environment with round-the-clock support.

Services included in the new accommodations are three daily meals plus snacks, laundry services, clean linens, medication management, access to telephone services, and a range of social and recreational activities.

This initiative is part of Simcoe County’s ongoing commitment to its 10-point Homelessness Prevention Strategy, an approach that addresses the housing crisis in the region.

Anyone in need of shelter or warmth can call 211 to connect with a nearby shelter.