York Region advocates to bridge health and human services funding gap

Community-led research has identified a significant gap in provincial funding for health and human services in the Regional Municipality of York compared to other large Ontario jurisdictions.

The York Region Nonprofit Network and York Regional Council is urging the Ontario government to meet with municipal elected officials, York Region and non-profit sector representatives to explore sustainable, long-term funding solutions to enable the Region to continue delivering critical programs and services that meet residents’ needs.

“As one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Ontario, York Region continues to experience increasing demand for services,” said York Region Chairman and CEO Eric Jolliffe. “Municipalities cannot continue absorbing rising costs for provincially mandated health and human services without adequate partnership and support.”

Research findings align with Regional analysis highlighting that population growth, evolving community needs, and rising service costs are increasing pressure on municipal services and finances, despite increases in provincial funding in some areas. Findings also show that upfront investments in health and human services reduce pressure on higher-cost emergency services, policing, housing, and income supports.

According to the research report, over the past decade, York Region residents received about $369 less per person each year in provincial funding for these services than residents in similar municipalities. This funding gap represents an estimated shortfall of more than $450 million per year in York Region.

York Region continues to be a healthy, safe and desirable place to live, but rapid population growth, increasing diversity, economic volatility and affordability challenges are reshaping community needs and increasing demands for services. Understanding these changes enables the Region and its partners to respond proactively and build on community strengths.