The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville will receive more than $1.55 million from the Province of Ontario to support our community’s most vulnerable residents in response to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.
Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark made the announcement today and said the funding is the riding’s share of the new $148 million Social Services Relief Fund under the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
“Our government has been clear that we will spare no expense to protect the health and safety of all Ontarians as we work together to get through this crisis,” said Steve. “I applaud the organizations in Leeds and Grenville working around the clock to help the highest-risk families, individuals and homeless persons. This funding will provide them with the resources they need to continue this critical work.”
He said the funding will help municipalities and social service providers such as shelters, food banks, emergency services, charities and non-profits keep clients safe and healthy. The United Counties will determine local needs and distribute the funding.
“This funding is a great relief as it will allow us to address a number of needs in our community, including supporting homeless individuals,” said Pat Sayeau, Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. “I want to thank the provincial government for continuing to be a strong partner in working with municipalities as we face these challenging times together.”
Ontario has also put in place an expanded Emergency As- sistance program administered through Ontario Works (OW) to provide additional funding for individuals, while enhanced discretionary benefits are available to those who already receive social assistance.
“We are acting quickly to support those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless during this unprecedented time,” said MPP Clark. “This funding will go straight to communities, who know best what the immediate needs are on the ground in their local shelters.”
