Feds to extend initiative to reduce homelessness with $125M investment

The Government of Canada announced it will be extending the Unsheltered Homelessness and Encampments Initiative (UHEI) on Wednesday.

The federal government says it will invest $125 million into the extension of the UHEI, as many Canadians are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of losing a safe place to live.

“Far too many people in Canada are living without a safe and stable place to call home. With this funding, we are ensuring communities can continue to access the resources they need to expand housing options and help people move into safer, more stable housing,” said Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada.

According to the federal government, the UHEI provides more stable housing, enables outreach staff to connect people experiencing unsheltered homelessness with services they need, and helps fund the creation or expansion of transitional or supportive housing and shelter spaces.

Additionally, $1 billion will be invested to create more supportive and transitional housing across Canada, while the federal government speaks with partners and stakeholders on how to address additional issues related to housing and homelessness.

“I commend the federal government’s collaboration and these investments, which will help support the vital work done by community organizations and maintain essential services for the most vulnerable people,” said Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada.

“In Montreal, we will continue to work hand in hand with the various levels of government and the community sector to provide dignified, sustainable solutions that meet people’s needs and help them get off the streets.”