County council has approved for the Social and Property Services Department to enter into a new agreement to help unhoused people get into secured housing.
The agreement, which would begin on November 1st, would continue until October 31, 2026, would help bolster the Bridge Housing and Stability Program, which is a partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).
Within the Program, CMHA maintains a month-to-month head lease with the County for two County-owned units, and also operates their six-bedroom unit in Goderich, all of which are dedicated to the Bridge Housing Program.
During the first 10 months of the program, 86 individuals registered since November 2024 to enter into the program, with 36 people currently actively engaged.
The program has also helped to form 12 new community partnerships established between the county and partners.
Throughout the first year of the program, six people have been moved into housing, with three in permanent housing and three in transitional housing. Seven people have been able to secure employment with program support.
A further 23 participants are in a position to be eligible for rent-geared-to-income or subsidized housing.
Staff had presented council with two options – one for a two-year renewal, and the second option for a one-year renewal.
Council defeated the motion for a two-year term, as it would come with a higher price tag and would be thought to bind the next iteration of council to the commitment.
Council approved a one-year renewal.
