New partnership, funding hopes to end local veteran homelessness
Posted Nov 13, 2025 10:12:36 AM.
Last Updated Nov 13, 2025 10:12:42 AM.
A new partnership between the Region of Waterloo, various local partners, and the federal government aims to put a stop to veteran homelessness across the region, with new funding to support it.
It’s being done through the region’s Ending Veteran Homelessness Initiative (EVHI), a continued push through the Region of Waterloo’s Plan to End Chronic Homelessness.
“The EVHI program offers comprehensive support services and rent subsidies to Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP Veterans in the Waterloo Region who are at risk of homelessness or currently experiencing homelessness,” said the Cambridge Shelter Corporation. “Since its inception, the program has successfully assisted eight Veterans in securing stable housing; five through Cambridge Shelter Corporation and three through Porchlight.”
The funding from the federal government is just over $3 million, set to go towards supporting local organizations that would help find those impacted veterans safe, supportive homes.
According to the region, those organizations include Porchlight Counselling and Addiction Services, in partnership with Thrive HIV Prevention and Support, as well as the Cambridge Shelter Corporation, all working to deliver “wrap-around supports designed to help Veterans find and maintain housing and exit experiences of homelessness.”
“We are grateful to Veterans who have served our country courageously,” said Bardish Chagger, Member of Parliament for Waterloo. “Through this Initiative, the Government of Canada is working with local partners to actively identify Veterans without access to safe and stable housing, matching them with available housing, and providing financial and support services to ensure no Veteran is left behind.”
The list of eligible individuals under those new supports ranges from members of the Canadian Armed Forces, including both rangers and reservists, as well as former members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
The region stated that the program also provides resources for veterans who “identify as 2SLGBTQI+, Black and racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, and Indigenous Peoples.”
“We are proud to once again walk alongside Veterans, helping them build lives of meaning, stability, and connection,” said Cameron Dearlove, Executive Director with Porchlight Counselling and Addiction Services. “We are honoured to support Veterans experiencing homelessness and believe that, by working collaboratively with our community, we can and will end Veteran homelessness in Waterloo Region.”
