Additional funding helps keep vulnerable people safe in Oxford

WOODSTOCK —The Ontario government is providing $1,764,700 to help the County of Oxford deliver critical services, create longer-term housing solutions and keep vulnerable people safe.

“I’m pleased to see this additional funding for Oxford where it will be used to support our vulnerable population,” said Ernie Hardeman, MPP for Oxford. “Everyone should be able to feel that they are safe and supported in their community.”

Today’s announcement is part of the province’s additional $307 million investment to help municipalities and Indigenous community partners respond to COVID-19. This investment builds upon the $765 million dollars of Social Services Relief Funding (SSRF) announced in 2020- 2021, for a total support to communities of over $1 billion.

“Municipalities have been on the frontlines of Ontario’s pandemic response and vaccine rollout, while continuing to protect our most vulnerable populations, including homeless populations,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “Our government is committed to ensuring municipalities have the resources they need to keep their communities safe, and today’s funding will help our local partners deliver critical services, support vulnerable people, and unlock affordable housing in their communities.”

Municipalities and Indigenous community partners can use the funding to protect homeless shelter staff and residents, add to rent banks, build affordable housing, and support plans to prepare for potential future outbreaks and/or emergencies.