New housing levy allows for record investments in housing supports

The House of Friendship's new location in Waterloo is one of many benefactors in our region about to get some new money.

According to a news release, Waterloo Region's overall housing investment of $150 million in 2022 will support residents facing barriers and will help build more affordable homes, while improving shelter capacity. This is part of council's commitment to increase housing supports. 

$30 million will be allotted to support individuals experiencing homelessness.

House of Friendship's new Waterloo location, at 190 Weber Street North, will receive $570,000 annually. 

“We are seeing what happens when this community comes together to address the growing crisis of homelessness in Waterloo Region,” said John Neufeld, executive director of House of Friendship. “With this funding announcement, the region is responding to a complex issue by funding a range of creative solutions, including our ShelterCare model. I am incredibly proud of our community for trying to respond in new ways with compassion, tenacity, and innovation.”

The region's strategic investments in housing and homelessness are supported by a new housing levy of $5.8 million, approved as part of the 2022 budget. 

The investment will also provide focused upstream supports, including expanding the Home-Based Support Program, increasing mental health and addiction supports, continuing street outreach programs, and continuing to support 24/7 staffing in emergency shelters. 

“Regional council is committed to ensuring there are supports in place to help those experiencing homelessness, because we believe communities thrive when everyone has a safe place to call home,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “The investments council is making in housing will increase and expand services to meet the needs of our community.”

The funding will also increase the region's investments in affordable housing, as part of the Building Better Futures Plan, which aims to build 2,500 homes in 5 years. This builds on the $20 million investment approved by regional council, as part of the 2021 and 2022 budgets, to increase the supply of affordable housing.