The latest intake of the BC Community Housing Fund would have poured more than $775 million into the province’s non-market housing sector. Despite homelessness rising in 60 per cent of BC communities surveyed, advocates also pointed to a shift in government funding that prioritizes “near-market” affordability over those that have a deep, chronic need for housing.
Participatory grantmaking provides equity, transparency and inclusivity by shifting decision-making power to communities. It puts local voices in charge by determining where funding could be best utilized in their community.
Grant clawbacks could have a direct impact on non-profits budgets and ultimately cut programs or reduce staff. It also signals increased financial uncertainty, making long-term planning and sustainability challenging for organizations across Nova Scotia.
New compliance requirements could significantly increase reporting obligations and administration costs for non-profits, many of which already face staffing strains.
Several regional and provincial 211 agencies have already compiled data dashboards based on caller data. However, this is the first national picture that brings together all Canadian 211 sources and can also support federal advocacy efforts, says United Way Centraide Canada.
