A new report on homelessness recognizes many of the important steps government has already taken and identifies a number of areas where continued work is required, says Minister of Family and Human Services Doug Currie
“This government believes that every Islander deserves the opportunity for a fulfilling and rewarding life and we are committed to helping Islanders who are struggling to find adequate housing,” said the Minister. “My department is currently in the initial stages of developing a new strategy for housing on Prince Edward Island that will align housing supply with present and future needs for Islanders.”
The report was prepared by the PEI Community Advisory Board on Homelessness. Since 2012-13 the province has invested in housing through 60 new rent supplements, 50 of which have helped Island families. The other 10 are for individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges.
The report notes that Prince Edward Island is now the only province in Canada that provides a tip-to-tip response to homelessness. It identifies a number of concerns, including expiring federal agreements, long waitlists and the need for a provincial housing strategy.
Minister Currie said he is encouraged that the Liberal platform from the recent federal election discussed a number of housing related initiatives, including new and renewed investments in affordable and social housing.
The minister said he will establish a comprehensive poverty reduction strategy and continue work on the new mental health and addictions strategy, recognizing the important link between housing and well being and that appropriate housing is a key element of both these strategies.
“We are committed to continue work with our federal and community partners to build on the progress that has been made,” said Minister Currie.