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Skip Navigation LinksSimcoe County > Departments > Children and Community Services > Community Services

Community Services

​​​​​​​​​​​We are committed to:

  • addressing poverty and homelessness issues in Simcoe County;
  • achieving more seamless and integrated services for individuals, youth and families being impacted by poverty and homelessness through strong community partnerships​

Homelessness Prevention

Through community partnerships and service provider agreements​, the County of Simcoe has been able to achieve a more seamless and integrated service for individuals, youth, and families being impacted by homelessness in Simcoe County. Partnership initiatives continuously address the following core service delivery element:

  • To move people from the street into emergency shelters
  • To move people from emergency shelters into permanent accommodations
  • To prevent homelessness by helping people who are at risk​ of losing permanent housing ​

Learn more about homelessness supports and services in Simcoe County

 

 

Coordinated Access SystemCoordinated Access System<p> CA (<a href="https://casimcoe.ca/" target="_blank">Coordinated Access</a>) is a process, not a program. A CA system is one by which individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness are directed to access points within the community. At these access points, trained workers will use a common approach (including common intake forms and common assessment tools) to assess the depth of need and help them complete the process that will prioritize them for housing support services. Clients will be matched to housing focused interventions in the community. <br><br> If you are actively experiencing homelessness, please click here to see the following Organizations that serve as AccessPoints in the Coordinated Access System in Simcoe County: <br> <a href="https://casimcoe.ca/community-access-points/" target="_blank">https://casimcoe.ca/community-access-points/</a></p>
Homelessness SystemHomelessness System<h2 style="text-align:center;"> ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​For information on the Shelter System, Winter Sheltering and Warming Centres, <a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Pages/Winter-Sheltering-System.aspx">click here</a>.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​</h2><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-1-5"><em>The County of Simcoe has recently introduced new dashboards to support its 10-point Homelessness Prevention Strategy and further assist people in need in our communities. For access to real-time shelter usage data that reflect the ever-changing needs of our homelessness prevention system, visit <a href="https://gisportal.simcoe.ca/arcgis/apps/sites/#/county-of-simcoe-data-portal"><strong>open.simcoe.ca​</strong></a>.<br></em></span></p><div><hr /><br>​T<span style="font-size:1em;">he County of Simcoe's 10-point homelessness prevention strategy creates a strong, data-driven strategy to help the most vulnerable in our communities through initiatives that have been proven effective in other regions. </span><img src="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/PublishingImages/homelessnesssystem/Infosheet%20-%20homelessness%2010%20point%20plan.jpg" alt="Infosheet - homelessness 10 point plan.jpg" style="font-size:1em;margin:0px;" /><span style="font-size:1em;">T</span><span style="font-size:1em;">his strategy makes affordable housing even more attainable by increasing supply, creating “deep rent subsidies", increasing eviction prevention services, and improving available shelter. It commits the County to find new opportunities, enhance community shelter services, and improve safety throughout the community.</span></div><div><div style="text-align:left;"><p><span style="font-size:1em;">The goals use proven methods that create a safer community for all, with the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness at the forefront. They take a collaborative approach to build up communities, understanding the important relationship that is established when working together with all levels of government, service providers, the business community, and residents from all walks of life.​<br></span></p><p>This is just one more way that the County is <strong>#BuildingUp</strong> our communities. For updates on the how the County of Simcoe is investing in our communities, visit <a href="/_layouts/15/FIXUPREDIRECT.ASPX?WebId=a41fbfa1-82ca-4939-9932-d97b8d6ad3e9&TermSetId=fb933945-005d-43ad-bb62-b84ef1fa9284&TermId=402f56e0-eb02-4a65-97ec-1f0538552cad"><strong>simcoe.ca/BuildingUp</strong></a>.<span style="font-size:1.236em;font-weight:bold;">​​</span></p><span style="font-size:1.236em;font-weight:bold;"><hr /> ​​</span><span style="font-family:oswald, sans-serif;font-size:1.618em;font-weight:bold;">Availa​ble Services​​</span><p>​<strong class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0">Should you have any questions regarding homelessness supports and services in Simcoe County, please contact the Community Services department at <a href="mailto:communityservicesdepartment@simcoe.ca">communityservicesdepartment@simcoe.ca​</a> or 705-722-3132, ext. 1470. ​</strong></p><div><hr /> </div><h3>Shelter System<br></h3><p>Local shelters and service providers deliver and manage homelessness prevention services and operations. While the shelter system is publically funded, local shelters are not directly operated by the County of Simcoe. Emergency homeless shelters in Simcoe County include: <span style="font-size:1em;">​</span></p><p></p><ul><li>Elizabeth Fry Society, serving women and gender diverse – Barrie </li><li>La Maison Rosewood Shelter, serving women and children – Midland</li><li>Salvation Army Bayside Mission, serving men – Barrie</li><li>S.H.I.F.T. – Alliston<br></li><li>The Busby Centre – Barrie</li><li>The Busby Centre – Collingwood<br></li><li>The Guesthouse – Midland<br></li><li>The Lighthouse – Orillia<br></li><li>Youth Haven, serving youth ages 16 to 24 years old – Barrie  </li></ul><p></p><p>For detailed information on Barrie-area shelters, please see the following documents:<br></p><ul><li>​<a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Community%20Services%20Documents/Emerg%20Shelters%20Chart%20-%202022%20-%202023%20(Updated%20October%2025).pdf"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/15/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />Emergency Shelters Chart - 2023-24.pdf</a>​<br></li><li><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Outreach%20Programs%20Chart%20-%202023-24.pdf"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/15/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />Outreach Programs Chart - 2023-24.pdf</a><br></li></ul><p></p><h4 style="font-size:16px;">​To access a shelter program, contact 211 for assistance or contact the shelter in your local community directly.​​​<br></h4><hr /><h3>Street Outreach<br></h3><p>Enhanced street outreach services provide outreach to those experiencing homelessness 365 days a year, seven days a week, with increased emphasis during extreme winter temperatures. Outreach teams offer a range of services to those who are vulnerable and who may not otherwise access shelters.  Outreach teams facilitate access to shelter or respite beds in addition to offering individualized supports to help with accessing a range of services such as inc​ome supports, mental health and addiction services, health care services and assisting individuals to develop plans to transition from to more permanent housing options. <br></p><div><div><hr /><span style="font-family:oswald, sans-serif;font-size:1.618em;font-weight:bold;">​Latest Housing News​</span></div></div></div></div><div><p>October 13, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-unveils-innovative-data-tool-as-part-of-its-10-point-Homelessness-Prevention-Strategy.aspx">County unveils innovative data tool as part of its 10-point Homelessness Prevention Strategy</a>​</p><p>October 10, 2023:<a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-presents-homelessness-winter-response-plan.aspx">County presents homelessness winter response plan</a>​<br></p><p>August 17, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-and-Empower-Simcoe-partnering-to-build-up-lives-of-vulnerable-residents.aspx">County and Empower Simcoe partnering to build up lives of vulnerable residents</a>​</p><p>​August 9, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-Council-expands-plan-to-create-new-affordable-rentals-in-the-City-of-Barrie.aspx">County Council expands plan to create new affordable rentals in the City of Barrie</a></p><p>July 26, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-reminds-residents-that-Social-and-Community-Services-offices-remain-open-for-critical-cooling-during-extreme-heat.aspx">County reminds residents that Social and Community Services offices remain open for critical cooling during extreme heat</a>​</p><p>July 26, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-and-Bradford-West-Gwillimbury-announce-summer-2023-pedestrian-and-vehicular-impacts-for-new-affordable-hou.aspx">County of Simcoe and Bradford West Gwillimbury announce summer 2023 pedestrian and vehicular impacts for new affordable housing build</a></p><p>​July 20, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/City-of-Barrie-and-County-of-Simcoe-announce-cooling-services-for-unhoused-residents.aspx">County of Simcoe and City of Barrie announce cooling services for unhoused residents</a>​</p><p>​June 27, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-releases-2022-report-card-on-10-Year-Affordable-Housing-and-Homelessness-Prevention-Strategy.aspx">County releases 2022 report card on 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy</a><br></p><p>June 6, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/county-releases-homelessness-prevention-strategy-23-6-6.aspx">County releases homelessness prevention strategy</a><br></p><p>​May 18, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-creates-temporary-supportive-housing-for-24-individuals-in-need.aspx">County creates temporary supportive housing for 24 individuals in need</a>​ </p><p>May 17, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-2023-Age-Friendly-Seniors-Housing-Grant-Program.aspx">County of Simcoe 2023 Age-Friendly Seniors Housing Grant Program</a><br></p><p>May 3, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-requests-public-input-into-the-future-of-housing-across-the-region.aspx">County requests public input into the future of housing across the region</a><br></p><p>May 2, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-and-Bradford-West-Gwillimbury-announce-upcoming-pedestrian-and-vehicular-impacts-for-new-affordable-housin.aspx">County of Simcoe and Bradford West Gwillimbury announce upcoming pedestrian and vehicular impacts for new affordable housing build</a><br></p><p>April 26, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-Council-endorses-plan-to-create-176-new-affordable-rentals-in-the-City-of-Barrie.aspx">County Council endorses plan to create 176 new affordable rentals in the City of Barrie</a><br></p><p>March 30, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-surpasses-10-year-housing-targets.aspx">County of Simcoe surpasses 10-year housing targets</a><br></p><p>March 23, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-to-celebrate-significant-housing-milestone-achievement.aspx" style="color:#000000;">County to celebrate significant housing milestone achievement</a><br></p><p>March 21, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/Temporary-Winter-Shelter-on-Rose-Street-remaining-open-in-Barrie-until-April-30.aspx">Temporary Winter Shelter on Rose Street remaining open in Barrie until April 30</a><br></p><p>February 28, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-launches-2023-Age-Friendly-Seniors-Housing-Grant-Program.aspx">County launches 2023 Age-Friendly Seniors Housing Grant Program</a><br></p><p>January 23, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-and-Bradford-West-Gwillimbury-announce-upcoming-site-work-and-impacts-for-new-affordable-housing-build.aspx">County of Simcoe and Bradford West Gwillimbury announce upcoming site work and impacts for new affordable housing build</a><br></p><p>January 14, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-provides-further-update-on-Huronia-Guest-Home.aspx">County provides further update on Huronia Guest Home</a><br></p><p>January 12, 2023: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-provides-update-on-Huronia-Guest-Home.aspx">County provides update on Huronia Guest Home</a><br></p><p><span style="font-size:1em;">December 22, 2022: </span><a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/Temporary-shelter-set-to-open-in-Barrie-.aspx" style="font-size:1em;">Temporary shelter set to open in Barrie</a><span style="font-size:1em;">​</span></p><p>December 2, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/Progress-continues-on-temporary-shelter-in-Barrie.aspx">Progress continues on temporary shelter in Barrie</a></p><p> November 10, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-begins-preliminary-work-for-new-affordable-housing-in-Bradford-West-Gwillimbury.aspx">County of Simcoe begins preliminary work for new affordable housing in Bradford West Gwillimbury</a>​</p><p>​November 10, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/Warming-shelters-available-throughout-the-region-this-winter.aspx">Warming shelters available throughout the region this winter</a>​<br></p><p>October 17, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-provides-update-on-temporary-shelter.aspx">County provides update on temporary shelter</a>​<br></p><p>October 5, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-on-track-to-increase-temporary-shelter-spaces-in-the-City-of-Barrie.aspx">Statement: County on track to increase temporary shelter spaces in the City of Barrie</a></p><p>July 29, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-and-area-partners-continue-to-address-area-homelessness-needs.aspx">County and area partners continue to address area homelessness needs</a><br></p><p>July 5, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/county-to-begin-site-work-for-new-affordable-housing-in-bwg-22-7-5.aspx">County of Simcoe to begin site work for new affordable housing in Bradford West Gwillimbury</a><br></p><p>June 29, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-releases-annual-report-card-on-10-Year-Affordable-Housing-and-Homelessness-Prevention-Strategy.aspx">County releases annual report card on 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy</a><br></p><p>June 28, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/county-council-commits-additional-funding-to-shelter-system-22-6-28.aspx">County Council commits additional funding to shelter system</a><br></p><p>June 23, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/Popular-secondary-suites-program-creates-affordable-rentals-across-the-region.aspx">Popular secondary suites program creates affordable rentals across the region</a><br></p><p>March 31, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/county-opens-2022-age-friendly-seniors-housing-grant-program.aspx">County opens 2022 Age-Friendly Seniors Housing Grant Program</a>​<br></p><p>January 17, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/Simcoe-County-to-participate-in-provincial-Point-in-Time-Homelessness-Count.aspx">Simcoe County to participate in provincial Point-in-Time Homelessness Count</a>​​<br></p><p>January 14, 2022: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/Homelessness-prevention-services-and-related-supports-in-the-City-of-Barrie.aspx">Homelessness prevention services and related supports in the City of Barrie</a></p><p>November 26, 2021: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-hosts-public-information-sessions-on-Affordable-Housing-Development-in-BWG.aspx">County of Simcoe hosts public information sessions on Affordable Housing Development in Bradford West Gwillimbury</a></p><p>​November 15, 2021: <a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/county-of-simcoe-breaks-ground-on-county-orillia-campus-project.aspx">County of Simcoe breaks ground on County Orillia Campus Project</a><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"> <em>For previous news releases, </em><a href="/CorporateCommunications/Pages/Newsroom.aspx"><em>click here</em></a><span style="font-size:1em;font-weight:bold;">​​​</span></p></div>
Social and Community Investment Fund (SCIF)Social and Community Investment Fund (SCIF)<p>​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The <span lang="EN-US" style="color:#444444;font-family:"droid sans";">County of Simcoe provides a <strong><span style="font-family:"droid sans";">Social and Community Investment Fund (SCIF)</span></strong> to help local organizations develop community-based initiatives that address poverty. SCIF is intended to provide opportunities for low-income families and individuals through community programs.</span></p><p> <span lang="EN-US" style="color:#444444;font-family:"droid sans";">The goals of the SCIF program are:</span></p><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>To support external programs that address services for low-income families and individuals, particularly those in receipt of social assistance, and <br></li><li>To address pressures identified in the social service sector.<strong class="ms-rteFontSize-2">​ </strong></li></ol><div><b><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF%20Eligibility%20Guidelines%20for%202024.pdf"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/15/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Eligibility Guidelines for 2024.pdf</a><br><br>​<a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/2024%20SCIF%20-%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions.pdf"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/15/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />2024 SCIF - Frequently Asked Questions.pdf</a></b></div><p><strong style="font-size:1em;">​2024 SCIF Application I​nformation:​</strong></p><p><span style="font-size:1em;"><a href="https://survey.simcoe.ca/surveys/2024SCIFApplicationForm">2024 SCIF Application Form</a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:1em;"><a href="https://survey.simcoe.ca/surveys/2024SCIFApplicationForm"><img src="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/PublishingImages/Pages/SCIF/2024-%20Social%20and%20Community%20Investment%20Fund%20(SCIF)%20Application-QR-Code.png" alt="2024- Social and Community Investment Fund (SCIF) Application-QR-Code.png" style="margin:5px;" /></a></span> </p><p><span style="font-size:1em;">C</span><span style="font-size:1em;">ommunity support letter and budget spreadsheet must be submitted as separate documents to the online application. Submissions are to be emailed to CommunityServicesDepartment@simcoe.ca.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:1em;text-align:justify;"><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/2024%20SCIF%20budget%20worksheet.xlsx"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/15/images/icxlsx.png" alt="" />2024 SCIF budget worksheet.xlsx</a></span></p><p><strong>Application due date: August 24, 2023</strong><br></p><p><span style="font-size:1em;text-align:justify;">​​​</span><span style="font-size:1em;text-align:justify;">​</span><span style="text-align:justify;font-size:1em;">Learn more abou</span><span style="text-align:justify;font-size:1em;">t the</span><span style="text-align:justify;font-size:1em;"> ​</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF%20Projects%20Awarded%20in%202023.pdf"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/15/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Projects Awarded in 2023</a>​<br><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/SCIF%20Projects%20Awarded%20in%202022.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" style="margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;" />SCIF Projects Awarded​ in 2022</a><span style="font-size:1em;">​<br></span><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/Chart%202021%20for%20website.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" style="margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;" />SCIF Projects Awarded​ in 2021</a><span style="font-size:1em;">​<br></span><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/SCIF%20Projects%20Awarded%20in%202020.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Projects Awarded in 2020</a><span style="font-size:1em;"> and<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;"></span>  <a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/SCIF%20Bulletin%202020%20V2.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Bulletin 2020</a><br><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/SCIF%20Projects%20Awarded%20in%202019.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img width="16" height="16" class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" /><span style="color:#0066ff;">SCIF Projects Awarded in 2019</span></a> and<span style="font-size:1em;color:#0066ff;">,<br></span>  <a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF%20Bulletin%202019.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" /><span style="color:#0066ff;">SCIF Bulletin 2019</span></a><span style="font-size:1em;"><font color="#0066ff"> <br></font></span><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/SCIF%20Projects%20Awarded%20in%202018.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Projects Awarded in 2018</a><span style="font-size:1em;">​ and,<br></span>  <a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/SCIF%20Bulletin%202018.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Bulletin 2018</a><br><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/SCIF%20Projects%20Awarded%20in%202017_FINAL.PDF" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" style="margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;" />SCIF Projects Awarded in 2017</a> and,<br><span style="font-size:1em;">  </span><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF/SCIF%20Bulletin%202017_v2_FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" style="margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;" />SCIF Bulletin 2017</a><br><span style="font-size:1em;">​​​</span><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/SCIF%20Bulletin%202016%20v3.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Bulletin 2016</a><span style="font-size:1em;">  <br></span><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Community%20Services%20Documents/2015%20SCIF%20Allocations.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Projects Awarded in 2015</a><br><a title="Hyperlink to the SCIF Projects Awarded in 2014" href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Community%20Services%20Documents/2014%20SCIF%20Allocations%20-%20update.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Projects Awarded in 2014</a><br><a title="Hyperlink to the SCIF Projects Awarded in 2013" href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Community%20Services%20Documents/SCIF%202013%20Awards.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Projects Awarded in 2013</a><br><a title="Hyperlink to the SCIF Projects Awarded in 2012" href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Community%20Services%20Documents/SCIF%202012%20Project%20Awards.pdf" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />SCIF Projects Awarded in 2012</a></p><p> <strong>For further information please contact:</strong></p><p>Tonya Nicholson, Supervisor <br><a href="mailto:CommunityiServicesDepartment@Simcoe.ca" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:1em;">CommunityServicesDepartment@​simcoe.ca​<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">​</span></a><span style="font-size:1em;">705-722-31</span><span style="font-size:1em;">32 Ext.1470</span><span style="font-size:1em;">​</span></p>
Emergency Shelter ServicesEmergency Shelter Services<p>​​​​​​​​​​​Emergency shelters provide lodging and personal needs to people experiencing homelessness on a short term basis. Emergency shelter services are used by individuals in crisis, needing temporary housing and support. Residents of an emergency shelter may or may not be recipients of social assistance. Residents of an emergency shelter may be eligible to receive such benefits as a personal needs allowance, drug card and other support services while residing in the shelter.  Learn more about the <a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Community%20Services%20Documents/FINAL%20Emergency%20Shelter%20Standards%20October%202023.pdf" target="_blank"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />County of Simcoe's Emergency Shelter Standards</a>​.<br><br>​​<br><br></p>
Simcoe County Food CouncilSimcoe County Food Council<p> <strong>​The County of Simcoe funds the position of the Food Coordinator of the Simcoe County Food Council through the Social and Community Investment Fund (SCIF). The Food Coordinator supports the community efforts of the Food Council. ​​</strong><span style="font-size:1em;">​​​​​</span></p><p> <span style="font-size:1em;">T</span><span style="font-size:1em;">he </span> <span style="font-size:1em;">community-based Simcoe County Food Council (Food Council) will further coordination and  collaboration of efforts, programs, and initiatives, to enhance community food security and decrease household food insecurity in Simcoe County. The Food Council will use the Simcoe  County Food Security Framework (Framework) as a guide and menu of proposed actions items  to support and advance.  </span><br></p><p> <strong>Background</strong></p><p>In 2017, the County of Simcoe approved funding to support the development of a Simcoe County Food Security Framework. A Food Security Framework Advisory Committee was developed, comprised of community members and County staff. The firm of Eco-Ethonomics Inc. was contracted to undertake broad community consultation to develop the Framework. </p><p> <span style="font-size:1em;">​Re</span><span style="font-size:1em;">commendations from the Simcoe County Food Security Framework included the development of a Simcoe County Food Council and the engagement of a community agency to host a related Community Coordinator position. The Food Council, led by the Community Coordinator</span><span style="font-size:1em;">,</span><span style="font-size:1em;"> supports coordination and collaboration of food security efforts, programs, and initiatives, and leverages existing networks to better connect partners across Simcoe County.</span><span style="font-size:1em;">​</span></p><p> <strong style="font-size:1em;">Vision</strong><br></p><p>The Food Council envisions a sustainable, equitable, and secure local food system in Simcoe County that  recognizes food as a human right. It is an inter-connected food system where safe, sufficient,  nutritious, culturally appropriate food is financially and physically accessible to everyone through dignified means, and where the people are actively working toward realizing a more food secure  Simcoe County. <br><strong style="font-size:1em;"><br>Simcoe County Food Security Framework Goals</strong><br></p><p>The Simcoe County Food Security Framework is a blueprint of proposed action items to achieve the Food Council's​​ goal for a food secure and sustainable Simcoe County. Goals focus on the following areas:</p><p>1. Household food insecurity in Simcoe County  </p><p>2. Support income and housing solutions</p><p>3. Increase physical access to sufficient nutritious food for all </p><p>4. Improve community food literacy </p><p>5. Support the local agri-food sector  </p><p>6. Foster Simcoe County's food traditions and Indigenous food knowledge and culture </p><p>7. Collaboration toward a food secure Simcoe County <br></p><p> <strong style="font-size:1em;">Household Food Insecurity and Community Food Security</strong><br></p><p>Two important but distinct concepts that impact the Food Council's ability to be a food secure community. Both of these measures need to be addressed in the work the Food Council is doing.<br></p><p> <span style="text-decoration-line:underline;font-size:1em;">Household Food Insecurity:</span><br></p><p>Household food insecurity is experienced when an individual or household lacks the financial resources to access food. Addressing household food insecurity requires specific income-related interventions.​<br><br><span style="font-size:1em;">Le</span><span style="font-size:1em;">arn more about reducing household food insecurity:</span><br></p><p> <a href="https://www.simcoemuskokahealth.org/Topics/HealthEquity/poverty=hunger" target="_blank"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4">Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit</span></a></p><p> <a href="https://www.odph.ca/centsless" target="_blank"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4">No Money for Food is Cent$less</span></a><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4"> </span>​<br></p><p></p><p style="text-decoration:underline;"> <span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-1-5" lang="EN" style="text-decoration:underline;">Community Food Security:​ </span></p><p>Community food security is a condition in which all community residents have access to a safe, culturally appropriate, nutritionally adequate diet through a sustainable food system that maximizes community self-reliance and social justice.<br></p><p></p><p> <strong><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11pt;line-height:115%;font-family:arial, sans-serif;">Key Documents</span></strong></p><p> <span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4" lang="EN" style="font-size:11pt;line-height:115%;font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Community%20Data/Food%20and%20Agriculture%20Charter.pdf" target="_blank"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" /><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4"><span class="ms-rteThemeFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">Simcoe County Food and Agriculture Charter ​</span></span></a></span></p><p> <a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Simcoe%20County%20Food%20Security%20Framework.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4 ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="" /><span class="ms-rteFontSize-2">Simcoe County Food Security Framewo<span style="text-decoration:underline;">rk</span></span></span></a><span style="text-decoration:underline;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11pt;line-height:115%;font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="msoIns ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4" style="text-decoration:underline;"><ins cite="mailto:Pozgaj-Jones,%20Irena" datetime="2021-06-04T13:18">(</ins></span><span class="msoIns ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4" style="text-decoration:underline;"><ins cite="mailto:Pozgaj-Jones,%20Irena" datetime="2021-06-04T13:17">CCW 2019-086)</ins></span></span><br class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4 ms-rteFontSize-2"></p><p> <span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4 ms-rteFontSize-2"> <a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Community%20Services%20Documents/SCFC%20Infographic.pdf" target="_blank"> <span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4 ms-rteFontSize-2"> <img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/images/icpdf.png" alt="icpdf" /> SCFC Infographic  </span> </a> </span> </p><p> <strong> <strong> ​For more information about the Simcoe County Food Council and how it supports the community, contact: </strong> <a href="mailto:foodcouncilcoordinator@gmail.com" target="_blank"> <strong> foodcouncilcoordinator@gmail.com </strong> </a> <strong>  </strong> </strong> </p><p> <strong>The Food Council website can be found here:  <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.scfoodcouncil.com/&data=04%7c01%7cKholah.Nisar%40simcoe.ca%7cb77dfa1d9e9440109b6d08d93bfd4c99%7cbaae52565a7340f28c4d76f3ae971463%7c1%7c0%7c637606781354681554%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c1000&sdata=MXvhKMMMcTjbofEK7WhtbDzWQizD2f8qvVtJ6qARZKs%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.scfoodcouncil.com/ </a>  </strong> </p><p> <strong><strong></strong>​</strong></p><p>​<br></p>
Domiciliary Care ServicesDomiciliary Care Services<p>The County of Simcoe Domiciliary Care Services are designed to provide permanent housing for vulnerable at risk individuals who are economically disadvantaged and who have significant health problems that require support for activities of daily living. County of Simcoe contracted Domiciliary Care Service Providers are located throughout Simcoe County.  ​<br></p>
Housing Retention Fund ProgramHousing Retention Fund Program<p style="text-align:left;">​<a></a>​​​​For information about this program and how to apply, please click the link below.<br></p><p style="text-align:left;">​​<a href="/OntarioWorks/Pages/housing.aspx">House Retention Program</a>​<br></p><p style="text-align:left;"><br></p><p style="text-align:left;">​<br></p>
Simcoe County Alliance To End Homelessness (SCATEH)Simcoe County Alliance To End Homelessness (SCATEH)<p>The Simcoe County Alliance to End Homelessness (SCATEH) is a coalition of over 70 community stakeholders and front line workers who are committed to developing and implementing strategies that will eliminate homelessness. The Alliance serves as a forum to understand, plan and co-ordinate activities that raise awareness of the complex issues surrounding homelessness and to create solutions.</p><p>Learn more on the <a href="http://scateh.com/" target="_blank">Simcoe County Alliance to End Homelessness website</a>.<br></p>
Reaching HomeReaching Home<p>​​​​​​<br></p><p> <strong>What is Reaching Home? </strong></p><p> <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/homelessness.html" target="_blank">Reaching H​ome​</a>: The Government of ​​Canada's Homelessness Strategy is a community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness across Canada by providing funding to local communities to help them address their local homelessness needs.</p><p> <span style="font-size:1em;">Th</span><span style="font-size:1em;">e</span><span style="font-size:1em;"> Community Advisory Board (CAB) is the local organizing committee responsible for setting direction for addressing homelessness in the community or region.</span></p><p> <span style="font-size:1em;">In </span> <span style="font-size:1em;">Simcoe County, the Designated Communities stream of Reaching Home funding is administered by the County of Simcoe, as the Community Entity (CE), covering the geographic area of Simcoe County.</span></p><p> <strong style="font-size:1em;">How to apply for Designated Communities funding in Simcoe County</strong><br></p><p>Organizations within Simcoe County can apply for Reaching Home Designated Community funding through the County of Simcoe, as the Community Entity, to support the priorities identified in the <a href="https://www.homelesshub.ca/resource/reaching-home-barrie-simcoe-community-homelessness-plan-2019-%e2%80%93-2024" target="_blank">Barrie-Simcoe Community Plan 2019-2024</a>.</p><p> <span style="font-size:1em;">The Allocations Subcommittee of the Community Advisory Board (CAB) assesses and recommends projects for funding.​</span></p><p> <span style="font-size:1em;"> </span><span style="font-size:1em;">​</span><strong style="font-size:1em;">Additional R​esources​</strong><br></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.homelesshub.ca/resource/reaching-home-barrie-simcoe-community-homelessness-plan-2019-%e2%80%93-2024" target="_blank">Barrie-Simcoe Community Plan 2019-2024</a></li><li>​<a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Barrie-Simcoe%20Community%20Homelessness%20Report%20(CHR)%202019-2021.pdf"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/15/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />Barrie-Simcoe Community Homelessness Report (CHR) 2019-2021.pdf</a><br></li><li><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/PublishingImages/reachinghome/Barrie-Simcoe%20Community%20Homelessness%20Report%20(CHR)%202021-2022.pdf">Barrie-Simcoe Community Homelessness Report (CHR) 2021-2022</a> <br></li><li><a href="/ChildrenandCommunityServices/Documents/Barrie-Simcoe%20Community%20Homelessness%20Report%20(CHR)%202022-2023.pdf"><img class="ms-asset-icon ms-rtePosition-4" src="/_layouts/15/images/icpdf.png" alt="" />Barrie-Simcoe Community Homelessness Report (CHR) 2022-2023.pdf</a><br></li><li> <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/homelessness.html" target="_blank">About Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy</a><br></li><li> <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/homelessness/directives.html" target="_blank">Reaching Home Directives</a><br></li></ul><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size:1em;">User friendly URL for this page is </span><a href="/_layouts/15/FIXUPREDIRECT.ASPX?WebId=a41fbfa1-82ca-4939-9932-d97b8d6ad3e9&TermSetId=fb933945-005d-43ad-bb62-b84ef1fa9284&TermId=d564d193-fee5-4fd7-900b-a167c166e9da" target="_blank" style="font-size:1em;">www.simcoe.ca/reachinghome</a><span style="font-size:1em;"> ​ ​ </span><br></div><div> <br> </div><div><span style="font-size:1em;">F</span><span style="font-size:1em;">or further information please contact  the Community Services Department at 705-722-3132 or by email at communityservicesdepartment@simcoe.ca ​</span><br></div><p>​<br></p>
Simcoe County HIFISSimcoe County HIFIS<div><p> <span lang="EN-US">​​​​​​​​​​​​​HIFIS (Homeless Individual</span><span lang="EN-US">s and Families</span><span lang="EN-US"> Information System) is a voluntary information system provided by Infrastructure Canada, and is a community-level data collection and case management information system.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div><p> <span lang="EN-US">Anonym​ous data from HIFIS is used nationally for the National Shelter Study and the Shelter Capacity Report. It is also used locally to gain a better understanding of the issues of homelessness in Simcoe County,​ and to better plan for services and initiatives. At the service provider level, data from HIFIS is used for case management, helping front-line staff provide coordinated services and reduce duplication for HIFIS clients.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div><p> <span lang="EN-US">In Si​mcoe County, HIFIS project development and operations are led in partnership by the Children and Community Services and Information Technology departments, with input from service provider representatives known as Super Users.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p><h2> <span lang="EN-US">2021 Update​​​​</span></h2><p> <span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}">​​In 2021, HIFIS continued to concentrate on operations, with focus on front-end user training (i.e. service provider staff), policies and procedures, data quality, and reporting. In December 2021, there was a significant HIFIS upgrade from version 4.58 to 4.59, creating future opportunities to utilize the system.<br></span></p><ul><li> <span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}">​14,280 client files (2,366 new files in 2021)<br></span></li><li> <span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}">233 active HIFIS users (113 new users joined in 2021)</span></li><li> <span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}">32 agencies (1 new agency joined)</span></li><li>23 virtual training sessions <br></li><li>2,641 HIFIS Help Desk requests/support<br></li><li>36 HIFIS reports available ot users (1 new report released in 2021)<br></li></ul></div><div><h2> <span lang="EN-US"><span lang="EN-US"><span lang="EN-US">2020 Update​​​​</span></span></span></h2><p>​The focus for HIFIS in 2020 continued to be project development and refining HIFIS operations. Project development focussed on the development of reports from HIFIS, and HIFIS operations focused on training with front-end users (i.e., service provider staff), data quality,​ and policy and procedures.</p><p style="color:#000000;font-family:"times new roman";font-size:medium;"></p><ul><li>12,138 client files (2638 new files in 2020)</li><li>251 active HIFIS users (94 new users joined in 2020)</li><li>31 agencies (5 new joined in 2020)</li><li>29 virtual training sessions since June 2020</li><li>​1965 HIFIS Help Desk requests/support​</li><li>​35 HIFIS reports available to HIFIS users (28 new reports released in 2020)<span data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":240}" style="font-size:1em;"> </span><span style="font-size:1em;">​​​</span></li></ul><h2> <span lang="EN-US">2019 Update​<br></span></h2><p> <span lang="EN-US">In 2019, the County​​ of Simcoe launched HIFIS</span><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">with its funded service providers </span><span lang="EN-US">in the homeless</span><span lang="EN-US">ness</span><span lang="EN-US"> sector</span><span lang="EN-US">, </span><span lang="EN-US">specifically with</span><span lang="EN-US"> the following programs: Housing Support, Housing First, Emergency Shelter, Motel Voucher, and Transitional Housing</span><span lang="EN-US">. </span><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div><div> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:1em;">T</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:1em;">he following ​​​milestones were achieved</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:1em;"> in 2019</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:1em;">:</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}" style="font-size:1em;"> </span><br></div><div> <span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"></span></div><ul><li> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:1em;">9500+ client files</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}" style="font-size:1em;"> </span></li><li> <span lang="EN-US">201 active HIFIS users</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></li><li> <span lang="EN-US">26 agencies</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> ​</span></li><li> <span lang="EN-US">11 in-person training sessions</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> ​</span></li></ul></div><div><div><h2> <span lang="EN-US">​​​More information about HIFIS can be found at:</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></h2></div><ul><li> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe: </span><a href="/_layouts/15/FIXUPREDIRECT.ASPX?WebId=a41fbfa1-82ca-4939-9932-d97b8d6ad3e9&TermSetId=fb933945-005d-43ad-bb62-b84ef1fa9284&TermId=52879e72-f059-4f33-b601-1fb145b1f0a9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" style="font-size:1em;"><span lang="EN-US">HIFIS Support Centre</span></a><span data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}" style="font-size:1em;"> </span></li><li> <span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:1em;">Infrastructure Canada: <br></span><a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/homelessness/hifis.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" style="font-size:1em;"><span lang="EN-US">Homeless Individual​​​​s and Families Information System</span></a><span data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}" style="font-size:1em;"> </span></li></ul></div><div> <span lang="EN-US"></span>For further information please contact the County of Simcoe HIFIS team by email at <span class="ms-rteThemeFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-2 ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4" style="font-size:16px;line-height:16.8px;"><span class="ms-rteThemeFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-2 ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4" lang="FR-CA" style="line-height:16.8px;"><a href="mailto:HIFIS@simcoe.ca" target="_blank">HIFIS@simcoe.ca​</a></span></span><span class="ms-rteThemeFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-2 ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4" style="font-size:16px;"></span><span class="ms-rteThemeFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-2 ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-4" style="font-size:16px;">.</span><br><br><br></div>
Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP)Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP)<p>​​<span style="font-size:1em;">​​​​​The Homelessness Prevention Program is a result of the consolidation of funding from three Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing programs; Community Homelessness Prevention Initiative (CHPI), Home for Good (HFG) and the Strong Communities Rent Supplement Program into one new program under a single policy and accountability framework. The objective of the program is to support Service Managers in preventing, addressing and reducing homelessness, including chronic homelessness. </span></p><p>The overall vision of the HPP is to provide Service Managers with the resources needed to establish a coordinated housing and homelessness system in each community so that:</p><p><em>People at risk of or experiencing homelessness have the housing and support services that they need to retain and/or obtain stable housing and achieve better outcomes.</em></p><p>The three key program outcomes of HPP are:</p><ol><li>People at risk of homelessness remain housed and have connections to support services. <br></li><li>People who are homeless and chronically homeless obtain and retain housing and support services. <br></li><li>Reduction in chronic homelessness. <br></li></ol><p>More information about addressing homelessness can be found on the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing website:</p><p><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/addressing-homelessness">https://www.ontario.ca/page/addressing-homelessness</a><br></p><div class="ms-rtestate-read ms-rte-wpbox"><div class="ms-rtestate-notify ms-rtestate-read a5987379-2ab2-4610-a180-ff273e21cd10" id="div_a5987379-2ab2-4610-a180-ff273e21cd10" unselectable="on"></div><div id="vid_a5987379-2ab2-4610-a180-ff273e21cd10" unselectable="on" style="display:none;"></div></div><p><span style="font-size:1em;">​</span><br></p><p>​<span style="font-size:1em;">​​​​</span><br></p><p> <br></p>

 

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