The Region of Durham is releasing funding in response to the growing needs in the homelessness support system during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 Community Assistance Fund is available as a one-time allocation for not-for-profit organizations in Durham Region that are providing urgent help to vulnerable residents, homeless residents and residents at risk of homelessness who are impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The homeless population is one of the most vulnerable populations in Durham. This pandemic has resulted in them requiring even more support during this unprecedented time. The Region is proud to be able to allocate these funds to help those organizations who are stepping up to help these at-risk individuals in our community,” said Regional Chair John Henry.

To apply for funding, agencies must be incorporated as a not-for-profit organization; able to sign a Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy or Ontario Community Homelessness Prevention Initiative (CHPI) agreement; located in the Region of Durham; and providing supports for homeless residents in Durham Region.

Eligible requests and expenses, include expenses associated with the provision of basic needs (such as food services or transportation costs); staffing costs to increase level of service or maintain level of service; expenses that increase or maintain service delivery due to COVID-19 (such as costs for additional cleaning services); emergency supplies, equipment or personal protective items; and unbudgeted expenses that support the development of enhanced service delivery in response to client need (such as technology purchases and upgrades).

Priority will be given to applications that support the health and safety, shelter, housing security or food security for vulnerable residents, homeless residents or residents at-risk of homelessness.

For more information about the COVID-19 Community Assistance Fund, click HERE.