A framework of action that addresses local homelessness over the next 12 months has been approved.
The District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board (DNSSAB) says the framework has an emphasis on shelter diversion, improving housing stability, and increasing local housing options and draws from the Board’s 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan.
“This Action Plan takes a hard look at what is essential to moving people off the street and into stable, independent housing,” says DNSSAB Chair, Mark King. “For some it may take some time while others, with fewer barriers, will reach independent living more quickly. This is a great plan that draws on many existing community resources and partnerships.”
DNSSAB says many of the action items build on and complement the community progress and work that is already underway including community mobile housing supports, household stabilization initiatives, and developing a coordinated housing access system.
“Over the next year, the Action Plan focuses on connecting homeless individuals with housing and health services and programs and proposes the development of an innovative and cost-effective transitional housing system of up to 61 units designed to provide shelter, supports and housing stability,” states a release from DNSSAB. “The proposed creation of transitional and supportive housing will provide supports for independent living through a suite of homelessness prevention programs and services. Advanced data collection and analysis of these priorities will track the progress of the plan to assist future decisions.”
Progress reports will be presented on a quarterly basis.
The Action Plan also follows a report “Homelessness Landscape in Nipissing District” that was approved last month and highlighted the increase in local homelessness despite significant investments and planning efforts by DNSSAB and other community organizations.
