The federal government is giving the Region of Peel $7 million to open a new reception centre that will provide “more streamlined services and supports” to asylum claimants, as well as additional shelter.
Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities made the announcement today in Brampton, on behalf of the Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
“As winter approaches, and with a global migration crisis, it is even more important to ensure people are kept safe. This new reception centre will save lives and alleviate pressure on the Region of Peel,” Khera said in a statement. “There is no simple answer, but we are confident that with full engagement from all levels of government, we can implement real long-term, sustainable and compassionate measures to ensure that the most vulnerable newcomers to Canada have a roof over their heads.”
The centre will serve as both a reception centre and a temporary shelter, and will be operated in partnership with community organizations who possess the experience, skills and capacity needed to serve this population.
Expressing his gratitude to the federal government for the new reception centre, Peel Region Regional Chair Nando Iannicca said that ‘today’s announcement is encouraging’.
“While the affordable housing crisis has put a major strain on our ability to offer shelter to our residents and asylum claimants fleeing dangerous circumstances, today’s announcement is encouraging,” Iannicca stated.
“This reception centre is vital for asylum claimants and will help ease the capacity burdens of Peel’s emergency shelters,” he added.
Lauding the partnership between Ottawa and Peel Region, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown said that “this agreement will save lives”.
Mississauga’s Acting Mayor Chris Fonseca also thanked the federal government for “responsing to our calls”. She said that today’s announcement comes at a critical time and will ensure those in need have a safe and warm roof over their heads during the winter months.
