Officials with the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board (DNSSAB) are discussing homelessness and housing with the province this week.
They’re at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference in Toronto and have a meeting with Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
DNSSAB says it will be advocating for annual funding for a mobile outreach team that will be able to travel the district, provide on-site supports, transportation and service navigation to unsheltered people.
The request includes the purchase of a vehicle for the mobile team.
Another request is for annual funding for additional supported housing units in the district and money for a pilot program to create 20-30 affordable housing units through home conversion.
“Capacity issues and a lack of resources throughout the district continue to present gaps and barriers when trying to help people experiencing homelessness,” says DNSSAB Board Chair, Mark King. “Being able to provide transportation, outreach supports, and affordable, appropriate and supported housing will go a long way in closing that gap and reducing barriers.”
Officials say ROMA provides opportunities for municipal officials and district social services board representatives to meet directly with provincial ministry representatives to discuss key issues and challenges in rural areas of the province.