Proclamation - National Housing Day, November 22, 2024

Event: National Housing Day 

Date: November 22, 2024 

“Whereas homelessness and housing affordability has become a pressing issue impacting communities across Ontario and here in Northumberland; and

Whereas the County recognizes it plays an integral role as the housing services system manager and sole shareholder of the Northumberland County Housing Corporation and is actively working to address the need for increased permanent, safe, and affordable housing to build brighter futures in Northumberland; and

Whereas the County is expanding stock and affordability through the increase of permanent units and rent subsidies in our community, with over 250 new units and subsidies achieved, or in the planning process, over the next 3 years; and

Whereas the County is also expanding housing options across the housing continuum to meet people where they are at, from transitional housing to supportive housing to permanent market rent housing; and

Whereas the County of Northumberland acknowledges the importance of supporting unhoused individuals without stable or permanent housing as a fundamental human right; and

Whereas in 2023 the County funded over 70% of housing operating funds and over 50% of capital costs, the County calls on the provincial and federal governments to equitably fund housing needs in Northumberland and across the province; and

Whereas November 22 is recognized as National Housing Day across Canada, where communities look to raise awareness on the importance of permanent, safe and affordable housing to promote health and well-being;

Now Therefore Be It Resolved That I, Warden Brian Ostrander, on behalf of Northumberland County Council, do hereby proclaim November 22, 2024 as ‘National Housing Day’ in Northumberland County, and call upon all residents, community organizations, businesses, and government agencies in Northumberland County to join us in recognizing this day as an opportunity to reflect upon and address the housing challenges faced by our community and to support unhoused individuals who deserve the dignity of having a safe and stable place to call home.”

Dated this 20th day of November, 2024 

Brian Ostrander, Warden