Member Statement: Homelessness Prevention and Support
Thank you M. Speaker
Not long ago I joined my York Region caucus colleagues to announce an investment of over $36 million to the Regional Municipality of York as part of our Homelessness Prevention Program.
Our government understands that the issue of homelessness is a complex one and we are continuously working hard to make sure everyone can have a roof over their head and a place to call home
I’ve had many opportunities to engage with homeless support programs in my riding.
I’ve joined St Joseph the Worker Parish’s Street Patrol Program, packing meals for those in need alongside some dedicated Thornhill teens.
While volunteering at the Holy Trinity Church Homeless Shelter, I met two remarkably dedicated sisters – Miriam and Hillary, and a young woman by the name of Cindy.
Cindy had come into the shelter back in December, she’d suffered some hard times and found herself homeless for the night.
She showed me the exact mattress she’d been given, and the picture that she took that night.
There she was approached by Rehana Sumar, Executive Director at Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold.
Today, just a few months later, Cindy is employed as a PSW. She’s been moved into a new, permanent home, and she is working side by side with Rehana to give back to the community and help others just as Mosaic had helped her.
M Speaker, the goal is to not only prevent homelessness, but to provide resources and support that will help individuals and families achieve long-term stability and independence.
I will continue working together with my community and our government to support these crucial programs.
