On March 23, 2020, the Province of Ontario announced a new, $200 million Social Services Relief Fund in response to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. The investment will allow communities to expand a wide range of services and supports for vulnerable populations, based on local need, so they can better respond to this emergency situation.

In a recent media release, Bruce County has received $446,800 and is working on a phased approach to distribute funds and ensure that vulnerable members of our community are able to receive the support they need to remain safe and healthy.

During the first phase Bruce County is seeking applications from organizations who are working with vulnerable citizens in response to COVID-19 or who are implementing new processes to keep people who use their services safe. This information will provide perspective of the overall need in Bruce County.

“I know this is an unusually trying time for vulnerable members of our community and the human service sector, including Bruce County’s Human Services team, who are working conscientiously to support those who need it most," said Bruce County Warden Mitch Twolan.

Organizations that serve Bruce County residents and provide new or enhanced support or services for vulnerable persons including homelessness support, shelter, food security, or support for seniors or youth as a result of COVID-19, are asked to submit a request for funding by Friday May 1, 2020.

Requests do not guarantee funding in part or in full. Submissions can be sent to the attention of Tania Dickson, Housing Services Manager at tdickson@brucecounty.on.ca.

All requests must contain the following:

• Full name of agency or organization;
• Primary contact (name, telephone number, email address);
• Brief description of the community service or support provided;
• Value of financial request as well as a brief description of how funds will be utilized to address the needs of vulnerable citizens during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.