County of Simcoe unveils largest modular housing project to support the homeless

County of Simcoe unveils largest modular housing project to support the homeless.

A fleet of trucks rolled into Barrie Monday carrying the region’s largest modular purchase—a 40-bed facility that plans to ease capacity pressures for those surviving on the streets without a place to call home.

“The modular building will immediately be utilized to support the County of Simcoe’s winter response strategy, providing a 24/7 40-bed program for those currently living unsheltered,” stated the County of Simcoe in a release. “This supportive bridge housing program will also provide 24/7 on-site support and services for unsheltered individuals to secure sustainable and permanent housing outcomes.”

The facility, the largest of its kind, is part of the Campus of Care, which was announced by Barrie Cares and the County of Simcoe back in October.

The goal? To create a safer community for all, especially for those living unsheltered in the region.

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“It makes affordable housing even more attainable by increasing supply, creating “deep rent subsidies,’ increasing eviction prevention services, and improving available shelter. It commits the County to find new opportunities, enhance community shelter services, and improve safety throughout the community,” stated the County of Simcoe.

This project is part of the 10-Point Homelessness Prevention Strategy that aims to help the most vulnerable in our region through initiatives that have been proven effective in other communities.

Composed of sixteen member municipalities, the County of Simcoe provides public services to county residents while also providing paramedic and social services to Barrie and Orillia.

This facility is expected to open in the coming weeks.