The cost of living in Halton continues to rise and the market rental prices are out of reach for many people. At the same time, social assistance programs like Ontario Works have remained static, failing to keep up with inflation, and the realities of housing costs. As a result, more individuals and families are struggling to secure stable housing, putting immense pressure on homelessness services and emergency shelters across the Region.
The growing demand for supportive housing
Halton Region is experiencing a surge in emergency shelter and supportive housing demand. Since 2018, unsheltered homelessness has increased by 185%, and the Region’s emergency shelters are now operating at 140% capacity. The average length of stay in shelters has also climbed, with individuals staying for 60 days on average in 2024 compared to just 37 days in 2021.
There is a significant need for dedicated supportive and assisted housing for individuals and families. All 5,404 assisted housing units in Halton are fully occupied, leaving 8,048 households on the waitlist. At the current rate, only 9% of those waiting will secure housing each year, highlighting the urgent need for additional units.
A Provincial and Federal partnership is needed
Halton Region has identified 548 shovel-ready supportive and assisted housing units that could be built, provided Provincial and Federal funding is available. These units would provide stable housing to individuals in crisis and help reduce reliance on emergency shelters. Without more supportive and assisted housing, the growing demand continues to strain emergency shelters, increase street homelessness, and lead to more encampments.
The Provincial government has an opportunity to support Halton Region in delivering housing for those with the greatest need by:
- Partnering with Halton Region to accelerate the construction of shovel-ready assisted and supportive housing projects to address the urgent demand.
- Increasing long-term, sustainable funding through the Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP) to ensure that vulnerable residents receive the support they need to stay housed and avoid homelessness.
- Enhancing coordination among all levels of government to tackle the interconnected crises of homelessness, mental health, and addiction.
The time to act is now
New research from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) (external link), in partnership with the Ontario Municipal Social Services Association (OMSSA) (external link) and the Northern Ontario Service Deliverers Association (NOSDA) (external link), shows that more than 80,000 Ontarians experienced homelessness in 2024, a 25% increase since 2022. These numbers will continue to rise without immediate action, further straining local resources.
The reality is clear: Halton Region needs more supportive and assisted housing to meet the growing demand and help stabilize those in crisis. With Provincial and Federal investment, Halton can move forward to have shovel-ready housing properties built as soon as possible, ensuring a stronger, more resilient community for all residents.
Learn more about Halton’s shovel-ready housing projects in your community: Halton’s Housing Portfolio (PDF file).