There are more than 1,000 people on Durham Region’s By-Name List as of August, which is a list of people experiencing homelessness who want help. The latest homeless statistics were announced on October 10.
The same list announced mid-August had “over 811 people” who were experiencing homelessness (see below).
The increase of individuals on the list (not counting those who have not registered) is despite the region’s claim that this year, 293 individuals on the By-Name list have moved into housing.
And with 200+ home insecure persons – including 144 children and 88 adults – impacted by the withdrawal of the rental guarantee program for affordable housing in Durham, it is feared there may be more people facing homelessness as winter approaches (see below). York and Peel are continuing with the program.
Support Withdrawn
The program was withdrawn as Durham Region (which provided financial support), said the Salvation Army (which managed the program) “remained non-compliant with reporting obligations contained in the Funding Agreement” (see below).
The program was withdrawn in May and in August the federal government in Ottawa directly funded Durham Region with $6.4 million to address homelessness and support people living in encampments (see below).
The Salvation Army’s offer to continue the program with another Durham partner for the benefit of the beneficiaries, was not accepted.
The Region of Durham said it remains committed to addressing and eliminating barriers to accessing safe, affordable housing for all.
Intensive Case Management
To help individuals on the By-Name List, the Region of Durham said it supports Intensive Case Management across the system. The Region’s Transitional Support Program (TSP) of dedicated case co-ordinators connect individuals with essential financial, health, wellness and housing resources through Intensive Case Management.
The TSP team also supports the following:
- Micro-homes Transitional Housing: The micro-homes in Oshawa features 10 units for temporary, transitional housing with supports. The TSP team provides case management for program participants to transition into permanent housing.
- Veterans Homelessness Program: The TSP team provides case management for confirmed veterans experiencing homelessness in Durham Region.
- By-Name List Housing Support: The TSP team supports individuals on Durham Region’s By-Name List to secure long-term housing.
- Support by email: The TSP team responds to inquiries from community members who email HomelessHelp@durham.ca.
“There are many factors that can lead someone to experiencing homelessness, including employment barriers, trauma, health challenges and others. As the number of people experiencing homelessness continues to rise across Ontario, the Region of Durham remains committed to helping people find and keep safe, appropriate housing. Housing is a basic need for everyone, and we continue to work diligently with community partners to address local homelessness,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO.
The Region of Durham and The Gap Committee recognized World Homeless Day on October 10 with a flag raising at Regional Headquarters, 605 Rossland Road East, Whitby.
For more information on homelessness and available supports, visit durham.ca/AboutHomelessness.
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