WELLINGTON COUNTY – The provincial government will provide $335,500 to help find long-term housing for asylum claimants in the county.
“It is our duty to help those fleeing conflict or persecution,” stated Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae in an Oct. 13 press release.
“I am glad our provincial government recognizes this fact. This funding is an integral part of ensuring these individuals have a roof over their heads, so that they may begin their new life in Wellington County.”
Warden Andy Lennox said the county “is grateful for the increased assistance through the COHB (Canada Ontario Housing Benefit) program to help newcomers transition to permanent housing that will help them contribute to our communities.”
The Ontario government is providing $42 million through the COHB to support impacted municipalities across the province in providing urgent assistance to a rapidly growing number of asylum claimants and other at-risk populations.
The funding allocation reflects the estimated share of asylum claimants in the area and their relative impact on local services, based on provincial social assistance data.
“This investment will ease growing pressures on homeless shelters by helping thousands of asylum seekers move into long-term housing,” stated Premier Doug Ford.
“Unfortunately, too many newcomers searching for a better life are struggling, living in our shelter systems, church basements or, in some cases, out on the streets. That’s just unacceptable. We need all levels of government working together to tackle this crisis.”
The release notes the province “continues to advocate strongly” for Ontario municipalities and service managers to ensure they receive their fair share of federal funding to address the significant, ongoing rise in asylum claimants.
“Our government is stepping up to help municipalities deal with the pressures they are facing due to increased numbers of asylum claimants,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Paul Calandra.
“We are committed to working constructively with our municipal partners, but we also firmly believe the federal government has a responsibility to step up as well and support municipalities in dealing with this crisis.”
Asylum claimants are individuals seeking asylum in Canada based on a fear of persecution in their home country.
The release notes claimants are ineligible for most federal support programs, such as financial assistance and settlement and language training services.
“They are different from persons who arrive in Canada having already been recognized as refugees, whose arrival to Canada as permanent residents allows them to qualify for federal supports,” the release states.
This year alone, Ontario could receive more than 72,000 asylum claimants – nearly twice as many as last year, the release points out.
