Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
STRATHROY-CARADOC - Middlesex County staff provided Strathroy-Caradoc council with an overview of homelessness prevention supports available in the municipality and across the county during the December 15 council meeting, outlining current programs, local data, and future housing initiatives.
Mayor Colin Grantham introduced the delegation, welcoming Joe Winser, Director of Human Services for Middlesex County, who explained that the presentation aimed to clarify what homelessness looks like in rural communities and how county services respond. Winser described four categories of homelessness experiences: chronic, episodic, transitional, and those at risk of homelessness. He noted that the fastest-growing group in Middlesex County is residents at risk, citing rising rental costs, food insecurity, utility expenses, and home maintenance pressures as contributing factors.
Winser also distinguished between visible and hidden homelessness, explaining that while some individuals are living unsheltered, many others are experiencing housing instability by living in vehicles, trailers, or temporarily with friends or family. He identified transportation, limited funding, poor credit histories, and the lack of affordable housing as key barriers faced by individuals seeking stable accommodation.
Local data from the county’s November 2024 Point-in-Time count was shared, identifying 68 unsheltered individuals across Middlesex County, with an average age of 39. Winser noted that some seniors over the age of 70 were included. Income insecurity remains a leading cause, with Ontario Works benefits capped at $733 per month for single individuals. “That is not a lot to live off of,” Winser said, adding that rent subsidies remain limited and do not meet current demand.
Council heard details about the Middlesex Accommodations Program, which operates primarily in Adelaide Metcalfe. The program has supported more than 250 individuals since its launch in 2021, including 77 people in 2024 and 65 so far in 2025. While demand fluctuates seasonally, Winser said there is typically a consistent waitlist.
Other county supports include Community Navigators, food insecurity funding for local meal programs, paramedic outreach services, training opportunities for community partners, and the “Whatever It Takes” fund, which assists residents with rental or utility arrears to help prevent eviction.
Winser also outlined upcoming work on housing, including a review of housing roles across municipalities, collaboration with external organizations, and preparation of a new London-Middlesex Housing Stability Action Plan. Public engagement sessions are expected in early 2026, with the plan to be finalized by May.
Councillor Frank Kennes asked whether progress was being made. Winser responded that rural homelessness numbers remain relatively low and that county efforts have made “some inroads,” while acknowledging ongoing challenges related to supportive housing needs.
Mayor Grantham thanked Middlesex County staff for the presentation, noting the importance of clarity around responsibilities and recognizing the county’s early leadership in motel-based housing supports.
