In an effort to tackle a number of poverty related issues, Ontario has invested over $16-million in community projects, including four in London.
London North Centre MPP Deb Matthews announced on Friday that the four local projects will split $1.3-million of the province's investment. The money will help support the impoverished, increase food security, find good jobs and end homelessness.
“With these investments, organizations in Southwestern Ontario will be able to help us learn more about what approaches are making a difference for those living in poverty in our community," says Matthews. "This will help government, communities and all of our partners design and deliver more effective programs to combat poverty using proven approaches.”
London Family Court Clinic will receive $570,400 of the funds to develop, deliver and evaluate the impact of a trauma-informed approach to counselling and community support services that works to stabilize court-involved youth.
The Unity Project for Relief of Homelessness in London is receiving $232,800 to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of re-designing services to adapt a Housing First framework to an emergency shelter context.
The London District Catholic School Board is receiving $438,100 to expand and evaluate the impact of the MindUP program, which is a social and emotional learning program for students in kindergarten to Grade 3.
As well, the M’Wikwedong Native Cultural Resource Centre will get $56,900 to evaluate the impact of the Giiwe Project, which aims to increase the number of people in housing, by fostering a more coordinated and culturally safe support system.
Ontario is investing in a total of 48 community projects across the province, which is being funding by the Local Poverty Reduction Fund. Those disproportionately affected by poverty include women, single parents, people with disabilities, youth, newcomers, visible minorities, seniors and Indigenous peoples.
