More funds into social services to help people in need

MPP Todd Smith

Prince Edward County and Hastings residents in need will benefit from an additional $120-million provincial investment through the Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF).

Todd Smith, MPP for Bay of Quinte and Minister of Children, Community and Social Services announced Friday that the discretionary funding can be used to improve the delivery of critical services, protect homeless shelter staff and residents, renovate and purchase shelter facilities, add to rent banks, create longer-term housing solutions and support plans to prepare for potential future outbreaks or emergencies.

Lennox and Addington County, which administers social services on behalf of Prince Edward County, received an additional $203,200 for a total of $1,785,857 to support programs in both counties. Hastings County will receive $522,300. It adds to $1,784,253 allocated through the SSRF earlier in the COVID-19 pandemic for a $2,306,553 investment.

“Our government is responding to the ongoing needs of COVID-19 by providing more flexible funding to keep our vulnerable citizens safe,” said Smith. “We know that COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of having a place to call home, and this additional funding will help ensure everyone can find – and keep – a safe and secure roof over their head.”

The latest installment is part of the government’s $510 million investment through the Social Services Relief Fund to help municipalities and Indigenous communities protect the health and safety of vulnerable people across the province.

In March, Ontario launched the Social Services Relief Fund with an initial allocation of $148 million to help protect the health and safety of vulnerable people during COVID-19. More than $241 million was allocated to municipalities and Indigenous community partners to help improve shelters and create opportunities for longer-term housing.