County of Huron creates Homelessness Task Force

July 9, 2020

[Huron County, Ontario] – On July 8, 2020, Huron County Council approved the formation of a regional County-led Homelessness Task Force.

The County of Huron continues to work diligently in addressing the challenges associated with homelessness, poverty and housing instability in Huron County. While much work is left to be done, the County remains committed to improving the quality of life for the people of Huron. Creating the Homelessness Task Force is one of many steps towards addressing this issue.

The County of Huron’s Social and Property Services Department has a number of initiatives and programs that have been developed to address homelessness issues, create affordable housing units and support low income households to remain housed.

“Homelessness in Huron County affects all of our communities, however, with social and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has only become more visible and could potentially increase when federal COVID-19 related relief funding, like CERB, ends in the fall,” said Warden Jim Ginn. “Huron County Council, the Social Services team at the County of Huron and our partner agencies remain dedicated to addressing homelessness issues and supporting these people in need.”

Many local municipalities are seeing the effects of homelessness in their communities and hearing from their constituents for calls to action. Town of Goderich Mayor, John Grace, said “No one organization can tackle the issues of homelessness on its own. By working together as different levels of governments, community agencies and compassionate members of the public, we can break down silos for coordinated solutions to addressing homelessness in our communities.”

While Provincial and Federal funding partners provide annual allocations, locally, the County continues to make commitments for reducing the level of poverty in Huron, to encourage safe and affordable housing opportunities and to provide supports to those living with mental health issues so they may live independently.

“As a region, we look to our collective assets and must continue working together for supporting our most vulnerable,” added Huron County Warden Jim Ginn. “Thank you to our community partners for their work alongside us in this journey to make our communities the best they can be.”

The County of Huron has a Long-term Affordable Housing and Homelessness Plan, 2014-2024. This Plan provides guidance to the County and its partners in planning, coordinating and delivering housing and homelessness services through an integrated system. See the Plan and its 5-Year Review, 2014-2019 on the County’s website: Huron County Housing Study Reports.

The County of Huron remains committed to working with local municipalities and partner agencies for addressing homelessness issues in Huron County.

Huron County continues to urge all residents to practice physical distancing and proper hygiene protocols outlined by the Provincial Medical Officer of Health. Stay informed on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in Huron County by visiting the Huron-Perth Public Health website.

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For more information contact:

Jim Ginn, Warden,
519.524.8394 (ext 3224)
warden@huroncounty.ca