Today marked the last day of the successful Hostels to Homes Pilot Program (H2H) in London.
The City was one of six municipalities that partnered with the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services to find a way to support youth, families and chronically homeless individuals in finding and sustaining housing through Ontario Works.
“The statistics speak for themselves,” said Ross Fair, General Manager of Community Services for the city. “Of the 432 homeless or street involved shelter users who voluntarily entered H2H, 329 or 76% obtained and are holding housing. More impressively, more than 50% are in private housing. Almost 20% are receiving income from employment. It is a sad day for us to see this program end.”
The City estimates the program saved more than $1 million a year between the high cost of shelter accommodation and the cost of social assistance support.
“We achieved significantly positive social outcomes and demonstrated financial savings as well,” Mr. Fair said.
The City, with its community partners the Unity Project, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, Mission Services of London and the Salvation Army Centre of Hope demonstrated that individuals who are chronic shelter users can achieve housing with the right mix of supports.
“I am absolutely flabbergasted that the Province has let this program close,” said Mr. Fair.
