Federal Government Donates Almost $100 Million to Toronto for Interim Housing of Asylum Seekers

In response to the pressing need for interim housing for asylum seekers, the Canadian federal government has pledged an additional $210 million in funding, with a significant portion earmarked for Toronto. Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the allocation on Tuesday morning, designating $97 million to assist refugees in Toronto who were previously not supported under federal programs.

The move comes as a group of approximately 30 asylum seekers, who had been camping outside a shelter intake center on Peter Street, are being relocated to Revivaltime Tabernacle in North York. These individuals were initially directed to seek help from federal programs but faced challenges in accessing support. Advocates accused the city of denying them shelter and sending them on a futile quest for assistance from Service Canada.

Toronto authorities had been grappling with an overcrowded shelter system, unable to accommodate the growing demand for housing. They had sought an additional $100 million in federal funding to address the influx of refugees, noting a substantial increase in claimants compared to previous years.

In response to the situation and the city’s funding request, Minister Fraser’s announcement is aimed at alleviating the burden on Toronto’s resources, ensuring that refugees have access to suitable housing options. With this funding, the federal government aims to bridge the gap and provide essential support to those seeking refuge in Canada.

While the federal government has taken action, Ontario Premier Doug Ford sidestepped questions about additional provincial funding for supporting refugees. He emphasized that refugees desire job opportunities and called on the federal government to expedite working permits to enable them to contribute to society.

Spadina-Fort York Member of Parliament Kevin Vuong, whose riding includes the shelter intake center, proposed exploring temporary solutions, such as opening the armory to shelter the homeless during winter, in addition to securing long-term funding solutions for Toronto and other regions accommodating asylum seekers.

In the interim, organizations and members of the business community have stepped up to relocate the refugees to Revivaltime Tabernacle on Dufferin Street. Here, they will receive essential mental health support and accommodations while longer-term plans are developed.

As discussions continue between all levels of government to address the ongoing challenges faced by asylum seekers, finding sustainable and equitable solutions remains paramount. The joint efforts of federal, provincial, and municipal authorities, as well as community organizations, are crucial in ensuring that refugees are provided with the necessary support and opportunities to build a better life in Canada.