United Way Simcoe Muskoka spends $3.5M for homeless housing

Through a previous round of Reaching Home funding administered by United Way Simcoe Muskoka, prefabricated homes were provided for youth and young adults struggling with addiction at Gwekwaadziwin Miikan in Little Current, Ont in this undated image. (SUPPLIED)

A home for those who need it most is being funded by the United Way Simcoe Muskoka.

Through the Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy, the United Way is setting aside more than $3.5 million for programs addressing the current housing crisis.

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The United Way wants to fund programs for people who are homeless or are at risk of experiencing homelessness in rural and remote communities across Ontario. 

"Over 200,000 people experience homelessness each year in Canada," said Brian Shelley, Chief Executive and Philanthropy Officer at United Way Simcoe Muskoka.

"There is a need for innovative programs and services to move people from poverty to possibility; by administering Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada Reaching Home funds, we can ensure that these programs exist in rural and remote Ontario to meet the unique needs of folks living in these communities." 

Of the $3,554,700 million available, almost $2 million has been reserved for capital projects, while the balance is for individual support/social services. 

Shelley added that $798,395 has been allocated specifically for programs addressing the needs of Indigenous communities. 

"We acknowledge the importance of providing culturally relevant services for Indigenous individuals and families as these are populations disproportionately affected by homelessness," said Shelley. 

All approved projects are expected to launch in April 2025. 

United Way has set the following timelines for applications: 

• Applications for funding for non-capital initiatives open October 22 and close November 19 at 5 p.m. 
• Applications for funding capital initiatives open November 19 and close December 17 at 5 p.m. 

Those interested in supporting the initiative are asked to register for one of the information sessions held throughout October and November.