Canada’s homelessness strategy gets $5.3M boost
Posted July 17, 2023 12:56 pm.
The federal government has announced funding to support initiatives aimed at reducing homelessness across Canada.
Housing Minister Ahmed Hussen says the $5.3 million will support 12 programs under the Community Capacity and Innovation (CCI) stream of Canada’s homelessness strategy. Those initiatives are expected to build capacity within the sector, as well as “reduce and prevent homelessness.”
“Through these 12 initiatives that have received funding under the CCI, communities and the homeless-serving sector will receive vital tools, supports, and assistance, empowering them to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those experiencing homelessness,” Hussen said Monday.
“Although considerable progress has been made, we will continue to work with our partners to tackle chronic homelessness across the country.”
The money is being allocated to several groups, including those dedicated to supporting urban, Indigenous, territorial and rural, and remote communities.
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The federal government says the CCI stream of its housing strategy is aimed at providing communities with the tools, resources, and support they need to address homelessness.
“The CCI stream also funds collaboration activities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners that helps to further progress with addressing Indigenous homelessness using approaches that are culturally-appropriate and relevant for Indigenous people,” the government explains.
According to Statistics Canada, more than 25,200 people across 61 communities in Canada were experiencing homelessness on a single day in 2018.
The agency adds estimates show an average of 235,000 people across Canada “experience one of the many types of homelessness” every year.
“These estimates are a best guess as studying homeless remains quite difficult,” Statistics Canada adds.
