Brampton (Mar 18) – Peel Region will receive $1.7 million to improved health supports for residents experiencing homelessness. The funding announcement was made by Ontario Health on Friday.
Peel’s Dundas medical shelter will received the financial support through the Wellfort Community Health Services.
Since the shelter’s opening in June 2022 until December 2023, 428 patients have received services for complex health needs and/or COVID-19.
Recognizing that people living precariously are also likely to face complex health challenges, Peel Region launched an innovative health care model to address housing and health needs. This model has not only proven successful in improving clients’ health outcomes and removing barriers to access, but it has also saved costs according to a statement from the region.
Peel Region is experiencing an unprecedented affordable housing crisis, with more and more residents from all walks of life struggling to live affordably or experiencing homelessness. Officials estimate that 91,000 Peel households are in Core Housing Need.
“In the face of a daunting affordable housing crisis, Peel Region has shown tremendous leadership and innovation with its model to improve access to healthcare for residents experiencing homelessness,” stated Peel Regional Chair Nando Iannicca. “This holistic approach has shown tremendous promise to housing and health outcomes for some of the most vulnerable residents.”
Iannicca says he is encouraged by the $1.7 million funding announcement that will not only help residents get and keep housing but will also help residents live engaged and healthy lives.”
