Advocates are sounding the alarm on Ontario’s housing crisis, as new data reveals a concerning trend in the government’s spending priorities. Since Premier Doug Ford took office in 2018, the province has significantly increased its spending on homelessness programs while drastically cutting funding for community housing.
The figures, presented to Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Paul Calandra, show an 80 per cent increase in spending on homelessness and a 70 per cent decrease in community housing funding. This shift in priorities has raised concerns among advocates and officials, who warn that the province’s approach is unsustainable and will only exacerbate the homelessness crisis.
Timmins Mayor Michelle Boileau highlighted the impact of these funding changes on northern Ontario communities, where homelessness prevention programs are receiving more funding while community housing initiatives are being neglected. Boileau emphasized the importance of investing in affordable housing to address the root causes of homelessness and ensure the well-being of vulnerable populations.
The federal government’s National Housing Strategy has provided some relief, but it does not fully offset Ontario’s reduction in community housing spending. The ongoing dispute between the federal and provincial governments over housing funds has further complicated the situation, leaving advocates calling for a collaborative and comprehensive approach to address the housing crisis.
As the debate continues, it is clear that more needs to be done to provide affordable housing and support for those experiencing homelessness. The future of Ontario’s housing strategy remains uncertain, but advocates are urging all levels of government to prioritize long-term solutions over short-term fixes.