Help for Aboriginal Homeless

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Government of Canada Helps Aboriginal People Who Are Homeless
or at Risk of Homelessness in Hamilton

HAMILTON, ONTARIO

- June 27, 2011

- Aboriginal people in Hamilton who are working toward building a stronger future for themselves are getting help from the Government of Canada. Mr. David Sweet, Member of Parliament for Ancaster–Dundas–Flamborough–Westdale, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

"Our government is giving a hand-up to Canadians with housing needs and is helping those seeking to break free from the cycle of homelessness and poverty," said Mr. Sweet. "We are pleased to support the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton in its efforts to find local solutions to local problems. By working together, we are creating community projects and partnerships to improve and to create services and facilities for homeless and at-risk individuals."

"We are delighted that we have been asked to continue to work closely with the urban Aboriginal population," said Don Jaffray, Executive Director of the Social Planning and Research Council (SPRC). "Our continued commitment to help end homelessness and support at-risk populations furthers SPRC's aim to create equitable opportunities in the community at a local level to ensure self-determination and autonomy for the Aboriginal community."

From April 1, 2011, to March 31, 2014, the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton will distribute Homelessness Partnering Strategy—Aboriginal Homelessness funding of $1,013,289 to local organizations for the development of transitional, supportive or emergency housing and support services for Aboriginal people who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness in Hamilton.

This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.

BACKGROUNDER

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) is a unique community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness by providing direct support and funding to 61 designated communities across Canada. The HPS took effect April 1, 2007, with annual funding of $134.8 million for two years. In September 2008, the Government committed to investing more than $1.9 billion in housing and homelessness programs over five years, until March 2014. This includes a renewal of the HPS until March 2014.

As of June 20, 2011, a total of 1 745 approved projects totalling over $633 million were funded under the HPS to prevent and reduce homelessness in Canada.

The HPS provides structures and supports that help people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless achieve self-sufficiency and full participation in society. This model seeks to address homelessness by working in partnership with the provinces and territories, other federal departments, communities, and the private and not-for-profit sectors.

The availability of safe and stable housing and related supports is an important element in addressing homelessness and in helping individuals who are homeless achieve greater self-sufficiency and a better quality of life. The Government's investments are creating jobs, stimulating local economies and improving the quality of life for many Canadians.

By working with all our partners, we will maximize results to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable Canadians. The HPS provides the support that our community partners are seeking.

The HPS uses a housing-first approach, recognizing that the first step is to provide individuals with transitional and supportive housing.

For more information on the Homelessness Partnering Strategy and the seven funding streams, please visit the following website: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/homelessness