York Region’s new 10-year housing and homelessness plan

Regional councillors approved the 2026-2035 housing and homelessness plan, which provides a roadmap for addressing homelessness and housing concerns. This includes strengthening the housing system. 

The plan responds to the increasing demand in the housing system. Currently, 22,000 households are waiting for subsidised housing, with a wait time of 10 years. Homelessness is also a growing concern in York, with approximately 2,400 individuals in need of housing in 2025.

York Region Chairman and CEO Eric Jolliffe responds to the increasing demand: “Despite significant investments and progress made in response to a housing crisis, the demand for affordable housing continues to outpace supply and too many residents are struggling to find and keep a place to call home.”

The plan intends to increase and preserve rental housing through new and repaired community, supportive, emergency, and transitional housing. In addition, the plan also includes helping people find housing through homelessness prevention, outreach services and housing supports. According to the YR report. 

Through partnerships among municipalities, senior governments, community agencies, and housing providers, the plan will advocate for a more responsive housing system.

To support these priorities, York Region’s 10-year plan proposes 244 new and redeveloped emergency and transitional housing options, as well as more than 580 new affordable subsidized homes.

The 2026 budget boasts $95 million towards housing and homelessness initiatives.

For more information on housing, visit york.ca/Housing. 

Photo: The Mosaic House in Stouffville is one of the many subsidized housing options in York Region. (YR photo).

Story by Matthew Fletcher.