Canadian Government Assists Toronto with Asylum Seeker Shelter Needs
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Announcement
On January 25, 2019, the Canadian government announced a $15 million fund for Toronto to tackle urgent temporary housing shortages impacting many, especially asylum seekers during harsh winter months.
Toronto has long faced challenges in providing affordable temporary housing. Recognizing the increased demand this past year due to global migration, the federal government steps in to help.
This financial support underscores Canada’s practical approach to aid asylum seekers. It complements the $11 million previously granted to Toronto in June 2018, supporting the city’s ongoing efforts to accommodate those in need.
Believing that provincial authorities are best equipped to manage these pressures, the Canadian government aims to establish a cost-sharing agreement with Ontario to address the challenges posed by asylum claims and irregular migration.
Statements
“We appreciate Toronto’s readiness to collaborate on solutions for those needing shelter. Mayor Tory has been a crucial partner, and ongoing engagement with Minister MacLeod reinforces our belief that Ontario is well-suited to allocate housing funds. We are eager to continue working with Ontario.”
– The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction
“We thank the Canadian government for this swift financial aid following our request. While we strive to support asylum seekers arriving in Toronto, our efforts require joint federal and provincial support to tackle this persistent issue.”
– Mayor John Tory, City of Toronto
Related Resources
- National Housing Strategy
- Government of Canada Provides Housing Support for Almost 1 Million Canadian Families
- Statement – Government of Canada announces $50 million in funding for temporary housing for asylum claimants
Additional Links
Contact Information
Media Contacts
Marie-Emmanuelle Cadieux
Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction
marie-emmanuelle.cadieux@canada.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
Why is Toronto receiving federal financial support?
The Canadian government is providing $15 million to help Toronto manage increased temporary housing demands, especially affecting asylum seekers during winter.
How does this funding impact the city’s shelter system?
This funding aids Toronto’s efforts to accommodate asylum seekers in temporary housing, supporting the city’s broader shelter system initiatives.
What is the role of the provincial government in this initiative?
The federal government plans to work with Ontario to develop a cost-sharing agreement, as provincial authorities are best suited to manage housing pressures.
Take action today to support asylum seekers and explore opportunities for collaboration with governmental initiatives.
