MP Gallant Supports Aiding the less-fortunate

August 12, 2008

Arnprior, Ontario - Cheryl Gallant, MP, Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke invites local communities and organizations to submit proposals to request funding through the Homelessness Partnership Initiative (HPI) for Outreach Communities, a component of the Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS).

“While the Call for Proposals was posted on June 20th, 2008, with a closing deadline of July 31, 2008 for applications, as result of my concern that not all interested groups that would be attracted in responding to this call were aware of it, the Department has agreed to my request to extend the deadline to September 5th,” said MP Cheryl Gallant. “I encourage any interested groups to investigate this program to see if an opportunity exists to support those in need where they exist.”

“The Ottawa Valley has a proud tradition of caring for one’s neighbour. I know that if people see a local need, they respond. I am proud to be a member of a government that also recognizes that we have a responsibility to be our brother’s keeper,” observed Cheryl Gallant, MP.

The Homelessness Partnership Initiative is aimed at the prevention and reduction of homelessness across Canada. The HPS adopts a “housing-first” approach which recognizes that housing stability is a precondition to enhancing the successful outcomes of other interventions. This program is for mid-sized cities and towns, rural and Northern communities in Ontario, and aims to fill gaps in infrastructure to address homelessness. HPI – Outreach Communities priorities are:

• Prevention Measures
• Transitional, Supportive and Longer-term Housing and Services
• Emergency Facilities and Urgent Needs Services
• Improvement of Community Services and Service Delivery Networks

Who Can Apply

Applications and proposals will be accepted from:

• Not-for-profit organizations;
• Municipal governments;
• For-profit enterprises;
• Public health and educational institutions; and,
• Band/tribal councils and other Aboriginal organizations.
• A total of 50 proposals are expected to be approved from the $1.5M allocation for Ontario. The funding will be made available for projects to be completed by March 31, 2009.