County facility at 136 Barrie Street to open doors with federal funding
A new Temporary Reception Centre in Bradford West Gwillimbury is ready to welcome its first family and will begin receiving newcomers in early November, according to a County of Simcoe news release.
The facility, located at 136 Barrie Street in Bradford, will provide short-term accommodation and access to essential supports for individuals and families transitioning to life in Canada. It will be able to house up to 54 people at a time, with stays limited to a maximum of 90 days.
The County purchased the property with help from the federal government. The release states that approximately $2.86 million of the acquisition cost was funded through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's Interim Housing Assistance Program, known as IHAP.
Partners to deliver settlement and housing supports
The County has partnered with COSTI Immigrant Services to operate the site and support newcomers as they adjust to life in Canada and in Simcoe County. The YMCA of Simcoe-Muskoka will also play a role, helping participants find long-term housing, connect with employment opportunities, and access social and community supports.
According to the County, the centre aims to help newcomers safely and efficiently establish independence and build their lives in the region. Supports include connections to employment opportunities and assistance in securing long-term housing. Families will continue to be prioritized through the admission process where possible.
Residents who want more information can visit simcoe.ca/reception-centre.
Part of broader settlement strategy
The release describes the centre as one part of the County's Community Settlement Strategy, and notes the property also offers a strategic opportunity for future use to meet community objectives and targets.
That strategy includes plans to increase equitable access to local housing, improve access to human and social service delivery, facilitate a growing settlement service network, and create referrals to streamline how services are delivered in the region.
The County also identifies opportunities within the strategy to increase labour force recruitment and retention of immigrants and international students, alongside programs and supports for newcomers in the local municipality and the region.
The opening of the Bradford site comes as communities across Simcoe County continue working to welcome new residents while addressing housing and employment needs. The County says the goal is to ensure a smooth transition for newcomers from temporary accommodation to permanent housing.
