HOUSING SUPPORT PROGRAM OVERVIEW Homelessness in the Grey and Bruce communities is not often a visible issue. Individuals do not often resort to sleeping in the streets. However, the problem exists in our communities. In October 1998, the Report of the Provincial Task Force on Homelessness acknowledged the need for early identification and prevention of homelessness.

The three core outcomes listed in the Task Force Report were: Moving people from the streets to emergency accommodation. Moving people from emergency to permanent accommodation. Preventing homelessness by supporting the retention of permanent accommodation. Both Grey and Bruce Counties completed a consultation process to determine the priorities for each municipality regarding the issue of homelessness in their local areas. The Housing Support Program operated by the Family YMCA was the result of this process. The Family Y Housing Support Program provides assistance in finding housing alternatives or in maintaining current living situations. Although the service operates out of two office locations, the service is available throughout Grey and Bruce counties.