Huron County is launching the Bridge Housing and Stability program in November to provide year-round support for people experiencing homelessness. Partnering with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Huron Perth, the program aims to help individuals transition from homelessness to permanent housing.
Previously, Huron County offered emergency overnight housing in winter, successfully helping 20 people secure permanent homes. The new program will expand this support to a year-round operation, utilizing 14 units: a six-bedroom house and two four-bedroom townhouses. These units will be allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis, with a waiting list for additional applicants. Elise Metcalf from CMHA Huron Perth emphasized that the program addresses a year-round issue, as homelessness rates have risen from 96 people in February to 109 in April. The initiative seeks $879,383 to operate, with $452,340 already secured from United Way Perth Huron and the Homelessness Prevention Program.
Participants will receive intensive case management and life skills training, including cooking, cleaning, and laundry, to help them reintegrate into stable living conditions. They will have a maximum stay of three months, with possible extensions based on individual circumstances. Metcalf stressed that while the program aims for permanent housing, its primary role is to serve as a transitional step, providing necessary support and stability as participants work towards securing long-term housing.
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