HOMELESS PREVENTION PROGRAM
County of Dufferin Community Services

Homelessness Prevention Program

Households eligible for the Homeless Prevention Program must document a temporary economic crisis beyond their control, and must be able to demonstrate an ability to meet the prospective rental/utility obligations after the assistance has been granted, based on current or anticipated income.  Applicants who are experiencing unforeseen hardship and have temporarily depleted their resources can obtain an application by contacting the County of Dufferin Community Services office, or download the application from the County’s website at  www.dufferincounty.on.ca .

Assistance is limited and is subject to availability.  Applicants must access all other sources of funding (Ontario Works, ODSP) before applying for Homelessness Prevention Funds.  If applicants owe more than the fund can pay (maximums are in place), they may be asked to make partial payment to the supplier before amounts from the fund are paid.  Payment of arrears are made payable directly to supplier (i.e. Landlord and Utility Company).  In all situations, applicants will be asked to develop a plan to show how they will return to self-sufficiency after the one-time financial assistance.

The County of Dufferin administers the Homelessness Prevention Program.  One application has been created that addresses Federal and Provincial data requirements for each program under the Homelessness Prevention Program.  Due to each program’s different eligibility requirements, it is the County’s responsibility to determine the appropriate program suitable to the applicant’s needs.

With the completion of the Homelessness Prevention Program application, the applicant will meet with County staff to discuss their situation.  At this time, a decision of eligibility will be determined for the appropriate program.

All funds are provided as charitable grants and are not counted as extra income for people on social assistance.

Some things that will be discussed with clients will include:

• Rent arrears
• Security deposits
• Utility bills and arrears
• Supportive services, counseling, outreach, screening of other benefits
• Budget
• Affordability
• Self sufficient

To download an application, visit www.dufferincounty.on.ca.

For additional information on the Homelessness Prevention Program, please contact County of Dufferin Community Services 519-941-6991.