That’s why we’re proud to launch a new 10-year Comprehensive Housing Strategy to help address local housing challenges head-on.
Here are five things you should know.
1. It’s a big-picture plan, grounded in real-life experience
Our 2025–2035 Comprehensive Housing Strategy is:
- driven by local housing data
- informed by lived experience in our housing sector
- shaped and executed with our partners in homelessness support, construction/building, local landlords, and more
It’s a bold, people-focused plan that balances immediate housing needs with long-term solutions.
2. Shelters are full, and we’re focused on prevention and people-centered support
Emergency homeless shelters in Halton are operating at 140% capacity, a clear sign that more support is needed.
We’re expanding programs that help people stay housed before crisis hits and are investing in supports to avoid long-term homelessness, including:
- one-time financial support
- housing benefits like the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit
- expanding our Community Wellness hubs
- support for vulnerable groups such as seniors and individuals living in encampments
3. Halton’s Community Housing waitlist has grown by 72%
With over 8,000 households waiting for community housing, we’re acting on both fronts:
- Protecting the affordable community housing we already have through new community housing agreements with funding for operations and maintenance.
- Creating new assisted and supportive housing options - including at least 165 new supportive housing units
4. Supportive housing works and more is on the way
Supportive housing combines safe, affordable homes with on-site services for people facing complex challenges. It also:
- reduces emergency room visits
- eases pressure on shelters
- improves long-term health and stability
Projects like 265 Kerr St and 1258 Rebecca St. in Oakville are underway to open this year - with more coming soon.
Visit our Construction Projects Housing page for the latest details!
5. We need all levels of government to step up
With Regional Funding alone, we can create 450 new housing opportunities in Halton Region over the next decade, but with provincial and federal support, that number could triple to 1,350.
We’re continuing to advocate for:
- more infrastructure and support funding
- stronger income assistance programs to support vulnerable residents affected by rising housing costs
Dive deeper: Get a full breakdown of our Comprehensive Housing Strategy
Halton Region's Comprehensive Housing Strategy (YouTube video link)
Visit halton.ca/housing to learn about local programs and support.