Whereas the federal governments Homelessness Partnering Strategy has recently initiated a significant program shift by placing much greater emphasis on Housing First; And whereas this program shift has redistributed funds and resulted in tightened eligibility criteria which has served to limit access to programs for those not meeting the criteria; And whereas this redistribution is causing funding reductions in housing outreach, referral and advocacy programs to people who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, including vulnerable seniors, low-income families, and women and children fleeing abuse: Therefore be it resolved that the federal and provincial governments provide Housing First funding as an enhancement to important community programs and not at the expense of those programs.
Ministry of Natural Gas Development Minister Responsible for Housing The Homelessness Partnering Strategy HPS is a unilateral federal program. Through the provincial housing strategy, Housing Matters BC, the provincial government is committed to funding a comprehensive range of housing options and support services to help homeless individuals transition out of homelessness. In Housing Matters BC, the province adopts the Housing First approach by providing housing and support services without treatment expectations, in social housing and the private market. In 201516, British Columbia and Canada will spend 211.4 million on emergency shelter and housing to assist approximately 13,950 individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.