Affordable housing challenges are reaching crisis levels in the Region of Peel, where over 32,000 households face wait times of up to 20 years for subsidized housing in Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon. The region is urgently calling on the provincial government to increase funding and address the escalating housing crisis.
A recent report reveals that more than 8% of Peel’s population, roughly 123,660 residents, including 27,900 children, live in poverty. Amidst these struggles, only 1.7% of Peel residents receive financial assistance through Ontario Works, which currently provides a monthly payment of $733—a sum the region insists must rise by at least $150 to meet basic living standards.
Peel Region’s centralized waiting list for subsidized housing counted 32,329 households as of December 31, 2023. Depending on family size and bedroom requirements, families can expect to wait anywhere from 12 to 20 years for affordable housing.
The report also highlights a 41% surge in Ontario Works caseloads over the past year, reflecting the growing financial strain on residents. Many are also grappling with food insecurity, with nearly 20% of Peel residents experiencing some degree of food insecurity in 2021. Food Banks Mississauga reported an 18% increase in users from June 2022 to May 2023, representing a staggering 82% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels.
In addition to housing, the region is seeking more provincial support to address food insecurity and long wait times for social and mental health services. The Ontario Nonprofit Network’s 2022 findings underscore this funding gap, with 89% of health nonprofits and 81% of social service nonprofits in Peel facing an overwhelming increase in service demand. The region estimates a cumulative annual funding shortfall of over $868 million.
“The report highlights the impact of Ontario’s stagnant social assistance rates, which have not risen since 2018. To keep up with inflation, Ontario Works rates would need to increase by over $150 per month beyond the current $733 for single individuals,” the region emphasized.
Peel officials are renewing their calls for action, stressing that only significant financial intervention can provide residents with access to necessary programs and services, alleviate poverty, and improve quality of life in the region.