Brantford-Brant Homelessness System of Care (BHSC) made significant progress in enhancing housing stability and addressing homelessness challenges in the community in 2023.
Housing Development
In alignment with the Brantford-Brant Municipal Housing Master Plan and the Mayors’ Housing Partnerships Task Force Affordable Housing Action Plan, the City has demonstrated substantial growth in housing development. Currently, 43 per cent of the outlined housing projects are either constructed or in progress, emphasizing our commitment to meeting housing demands.
In the last year, the City’s waitlist for housing has declined, demonstrating the success of current approaches to addressing housing needs within the community.
Housing Stability Supports
Various interventions have been implemented, including in-person diversion services, expanding shelter capacity by increasing number of shelter beds, case management for shelter inhabitants, utilization of the Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS), transitional bed spaces, and more, all geared towards ensuring housing stability for those accessing the shelter system.
While facing financial challenges, we’ve made substantial progress in municipal housing development. Since 2020, 220 units have been completed or are in progress, constituting 43% of our municipal housing goals outlined in the Brantford-Brant Municipal Housing Master Plan.
The City recognizes the constraints faced by non-profit organizations in housing development and will focus more efforts on supporting non-profit organizations in housing and facilitating the creation of more affordable housing units, including a pilot program with Jaycee Brantford Non-Profit Homes Corp.
“Consistent with the Mayors’ Housing Partnerships Affordable Housing Action Plan, the strides made in 2023 signify our ongoing commitment to housing stability, helping vulnerable individuals in our community not just obtain shelter, but a place to truly call home,” said Kevin Davis, Mayor for the City of Brantford. “This isn’t just about homes; it’s about the strength of our collective resolve to ensure that all of our citizens have an opportunity to access safe, stable housing.”
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