A new housing initiative in Collingwood, Ontario, is set to assist seniors who are experiencing homelessness, with the program’s first residents expected to move in within the next few weeks. This effort, known as the Supportive Rapid Re-Housing Program (SRRP), aims to provide both immediate housing and ongoing support for those aged 55 and older who are facing temporary homelessness.
The SRRP will be implemented in phases, starting with a limited number of residents. Once fully operational, the program is expected to house and support between 10 and 13 individuals at any given time. The initiative is a collaboration between local organizations, including CONTACT Community Services and the South Georgian Bay Community Health Centre, which will offer comprehensive, round-the-clock services on-site, ensuring that residents receive the support they need to transition into stable, long-term housing.
Brenda Pufek, interim executive director of CONTACT Community Services, expressed her enthusiasm about the project, highlighting Collingwood’s welcoming environment and the program’s potential to make a significant difference in the lives of local seniors. She emphasized the importance of working with the community and health services to ensure that residents are not just provided with a place to stay but also with the tools and assistance needed to rebuild their lives.
Collingwood Mayor Yvonne Hamlin also shared her support for the program, noting that it provides more than just temporary shelter. It offers seniors a chance to secure stable housing and receive the necessary support services that can help them move forward. The Town of Collingwood, in partnership with the County of Simcoe and other local agencies, has worked hard to develop this program, which is seen as a critical step toward addressing the region’s housing challenges.
The SRRP announcement follows the Town of Collingwood’s 2023 Affordable Housing Master Plan (AHMP), which included recommendations aimed at tackling local housing issues. It also comes just months after the reintroduction of Collingwood’s Rapid Additional Residential Unit (ARU) program, further reinforcing the town’s commitment to providing housing solutions for its residents in need. With the continued support of its partners, Collingwood is taking important strides toward helping vulnerable seniors find a safe, supportive place to call home.