New federal funding is being directed to Sudbury, aiming to help those who are facing or experiencing homelessness.
In response to the escalating issue of homelessness in the Nickel City, Sudbury MP Viviane Lapointe and Nickel Belt MP Marc Serré have announced a one-time top-up of $436,070 through the Reaching Home program.
According to a release from Lapointe’s office, the funds will be directed to the City of Greater Sudbury “to continue to provide immediate relief and to help keep people who are experiencing unsheltered homelessness safe. This funding responds to the increased demand for services and supports throughout the colder months in Northern Ontario.”
From 2019 to 2024, the City of Greater Sudbury received a total of $5,449,088 through the Reaching Home program to assist with these supports. This funding was used to support emergency shelters, a Housing First program, data collection and coordination in Sudbury, and the continuation of two emergency shelter programs.
“The rise of homelessness is a challenge that requires a united response from all partners. Our government is committed to working together to reduce homelessness, and we are taking much needed steps towards tangible change,” said Lapointe in the release. “With the cold weather intensifying, the urgency to address this issue has become paramount. The Reaching Home program will help support initiatives to ensure we have shelter for vulnerable people in our community.”
Serré added that combatting homelessness remains a priority for the federal government.
“This funding top-up will help support those most vulnerable, especially in the winter months. Thank you to the City of Greater Sudbury for working proactively and collaboratively to ensure residents can access services, find housing, and live in dignity.”
Greater Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefevbre stated the federal funds will help with the expansion of city homelessness programs.
“We continue to work with our community partners to identify additional services that we can put in place this winter,” he said. “Ensuring that all citizens have access to housing and emergency shelter during the coldest months of the year is a priority for council.”
