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June 23, 1999
To:Community Services Committee
From:Commissioner of Community and Neighbourhood Services
Subject:Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund Interim Report
Purpose:
To provide the committee with an update on the activities funded through the 1998/99 Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund.
Funding Sources:
There is no financial impact on the City. The 1998/99 Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund is funded 100% at the Provincial Level.
Recommendation:
It is recommended that this report be received for information.
Council Reference/Background:
The City is required to submit a status report to the Province on the actual and projected use of the $1.02 million allocated under the Provincial Homeless Initiatives Fund (PHIF) for 1998/99. The attached report sent to the Province summarizes the program activities to date including the actual and projected use of the funds to December 31, 1999, and provides information on our initial learning from interim reports submitted by the community agencies operating the 27 projects funded through this initiative.
Contact Name:
Joanne Campbell
Phone: 392-7885
Fax: 392-0548
Commissioner of Community & Neighbourhood Services
CITY OF TORONTO
PROVINCIAL HOMELESSNESS INITIATIVES FUND
STATUS REPORT
JUNE 30, 1999
Executive Summary
The Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund (PHIF) provides the City with a useful resource to respond to homelessness across the City and to respond to recommendations made by the Mayor's Homelessness Action Task Force.
PHIF has been used to fund projects which help people who are living on the streets access shelters, help people who are living in hostels access and maintain more permanent forms of housing and to prevent homelessness through strategic interventions. Assistance is being provided to people without homes, to tenants, landlords and to specific groups of people who were deemed most vulnerable to homelessness such as aboriginal peoples and new Canadians.
PHIF is being used by the City of Toronto to further its objectives of developing strategies that will result in long term solutions to homelessness and creating efficiencies in the "system" of services to homeless people currently available in the community. For example, finding permanent housing for a family having difficulty moving out of the hostel system will not only improve the quality of life for the family but will also free up hostel space for emergency use.
City staff are working closely with the 27 projected funded through PHIF to determine:
This is the City of Toronto's interim report on these PHIF funded projects, most of which have been operating for one or two months. Projects were selected by staff in February 1999 and cheques were issued in March. Some community agencies were able to begin project implementation once funding approval was secured but others needed to wait until cheques were actually received. The City asked for an Interim report by May 31, 1999 in order to provide more detailed information for this status report. This status report is based on the PHIF projects' interim reports which give details on project objectives, service targets, client groups and key issues identified to date. It is submitted in compliance with the agreement between the City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario.
Introduction:
This report summarizes the PHIF program activities to date including actual and projected use of funds to December 31, 1999, provides information on our initial learnings, as well as outlines plans currently underway to expand the initiative with the increased funds made available. It includes the following:
1.Community consultation process, priorities and project selection;
2.An accounting of the actual use of funds to June 30, 1999 and projected use of funds to December 31, 1999;
3. Evaluation approach for PHIF;
4. A summary of the general trends reported by community organizations sponsored through the PHIF;
5.Plans for the expanded initiative; and
6.Detailed reporting on each project.
1. Community Consultation, Priorities and Project Selection
For 1998/99 the City of Toronto Council authorized the Commissioner of Community and Neighbourhood Services to select projects and allocate Provincial Homeless Initiative Funds. The process established had three stages: community consultation on project priorities, a call for proposals (i.e. RPF) and a project selection.
The three outcome areas established by the province for the PHIF provided the overall framework for the PHIF:
- Moving people from the streets to emergency accommodation;
- Moving people from emergency to permanent accommodation; and
- Preventing homelessness by supporting the retention of permanent accommodation.
Consultations with community groups by staff identified service priority areas, within this framework, for the first PHIF allocation. Finally, recommendations from the Interim report of the Mayor's Homelessness Action Task Force helped focus priorities.
A general priority arising from the consultation was the need to close service gaps; in existing services and in geographic areas across the City. Community agencies identified significant gaps in service due to increased numbers of people in danger of losing their housing and the increased levels of homelessness in the Toronto. In addition, emphasis was placed on expanding initiatives in the former municipalities of North York, York, East York and Etobicoke where there had been only limited funding available for responses.
A targeted Proposal Call was issued in December of 1998 for eight project areas which were identified by community groups as being priority service areas. (A copy of the RFP is attached)
The priority areas are as follows:
1. Housing Help: Special Projects
2. Crisis Support for Vulnerable Tenants and Landlords
3. Initiatives For Homeless Aboriginal People
4. Access to Settlement Services and Housing for Homeless New Canadians
5. Community /Business Homeless Initiatives
6. Housing for Chronic Hostels Users
7. Skills Development Initiatives
8. Innovations for People Experiencing Homelessness
A total of 80 proposals were received by the deadline of January 8, 1999. Project selection occurred in January. Twenty-five projects were selected for funding. In addition, two projects identified by staff as supporting key community based projects were also funded. (Detailed reports are included in Appendix "A"). Funding approval was finalized in February and cheques issued to successful applicants in March, 1999.
2. Actual and Projected Use of Funds
The PHIF allocation of $1.02 to the City of Toronto is being used as follows:
Funds expended:
Allocated to 27 Community Agencies (See Appendix B")$ 910,279
Staffing and administrative costs related to PHIF$ 79,721
Funds to be expended by December 31, 1999
Program Evaluation$ 30,000
_________
$1,020,000
3. PHIF Evaluation Approach
The funding agreements between PHIF projects and the City of Toronto set out general reporting requirements: two written reports: interim and final (including financial statements). Every project has an approved work plan, service targets, time lines and a management structure to support their undertakings. In addition, project managers and staff are required to participate in some or all of the following activities: regular meetings of projects with similar aims, special focus groups and meetings of Committee of Council (i.e. Alternative Housing and Service Committee.)
PHIF project evaluation has three components in the City of Toronto. Projects' Interim Reports focus on key issues arising from the first few months of project operation. A final evaluation will be based on reports from projects after their first year. "On-stream" evaluation is occurring throughout the operation of the projects.
Interim reports:
For this Status Report, sponsored groups were asked to submit an Interim Report summarizing project activity up to May 31, 1999. A copy of the Interim Report format is attached. Included in the report, are questions which seek to identify key issues and service gaps. This information will be useful to identify opportunities and obstacles within the present day context of PHIF projects. City staff will provide feedback to individual projects, use the information to recommend priority areas for future funding as well as to inform City policy making.
Final reports:
PHIF projects will be evaluated at the end of the first year in order to determine the project's successes and shortcomings in the larger context of addressing homelessness.
This larger context involves evaluating the projects' collective contributions to long term solutions using the Province's three-tired framework, as well as their role in creating "efficiencies" in the system of services used by homeless people. Finally, progress needs to be assessed on filling "services gaps" as identified in community consultations, and in meeting goals set out in the Mayor's Homeless Action Task Force.
Both quantitative and qualitative measures will be used in order to evaluate projects. Comprehensive work plans for each project have established numeric service targets, and performance measures can be monitored regularly. Examples of measures used are: number of staff employed and volunteering (including number who have experienced homelessness), number of clients (over varying duration of time depending on project), average caseload, calls per day, number of referrals, number of vacancies registered, number of workshops held and attendance, number of people still in housing after interventions, etc, etc.
An evaluation "tool" will be developed for final evaluation using funds set aside from the 1998/99 PHIF allocation. This will provide consistency in final project reports and will make aggregate reporting, service and target comparisons possible. As a starting point, projects are being asked to collaborate on their data collection instruments (e.g. intake forms) and share their knowledge of computerized databases (some projects have very sophisticated data analysis capabilities and others do not.) These quantitative measures have been reported by projects in their Interim Report, and although most projects were only operating for one or two months prior to reporting, these targets are reported to be realistic.
Project reports are required to include a descriptive analysis of "what's working and what is not." This is an opportunity to describe the client group best served by the project, provide case histories, assess service gaps (i.e. who has received help) and identify key issues for clients of the project.
"On stream" evaluation:
In addition to a final evaluation, "on stream" evaluation is being used. City staff are participating as some projects move through each step of implementation to ensure that the strategies are effective and that projects are connected with additional resources needed to undertake their work.
More formal collaboration is required in the Housing Help: Special Projects, where seven projects with similar aims are building on an established network of Housing Help services. City staff meet monthly with project groups to coordinate and provide resources for the projects so that they can better help vulnerable people access and keep their housing. To date, orientation and education sessions have been held on the following topics: data collection, new social assistance funds (i.e. Shelter Fund and new Community Start-up guidelines), access to rent geared to income housing through Social Housing Connections , and others planned on hiring and training "peers" with experience of homelessness, Community Information Centre's Blue Book Directory and conflict resolution. The City role in this collaborative forum will be assessed after first year PHIF projects have been completed.
4. General Trends from Interim Reports
Interim reports have been received from all the projects funded through PHIF. It should be noted that these are very preliminary reports.
Some community agencies were able to begin project implementation once funding approval was secured but others needed to wait until cheques were actually received in March 1999. Taking into account the time it takes for hiring procedures and approvals, project staff for PHIF projects were generally in place by May 1999. Most of these interim reports are based on one month of service.
Despite the preliminary nature of the reports there are some clear trends that are emerging particularly from projects that are providing housing access and supports. They are as follows:
Effective Strategies:
Although most of the projects funded through PHIF are in their initial stages, preliminary findings indicate that the program is providing effective interventions with some of the most vulnerable homeless people or those who most at risk of homelessness. Service target projections are supported by the experience of the first few months of operation in the majority of projects.
Feedback from projects shows:
Lack of Affordable Housing
Based on our analysis of the Interim Reports and follow up conversations with staff from PHIF projects, it is not surprising that the single most significant problem in developing long term solutions to homelessness is the lack of affordable housing in Toronto. While this presents a significant problem for any household with limited financial means, it is an overwhelming one for marginalized people especially those with language barriers, behavioural problems, substance abuse, or mental health issues. These "high need"groups are simply not able to compete in the housing "market" which is intensely competitive. This problem reverberates throughout the "system" causing people to stay longer in hostels, filling the shelter system and contributing to increased numbers of people on the streets.
Available Housing is seldom affordable
The shelter allowance of $325 per month for a single person on social assistance is not sufficient to rent a single room in today's market in Toronto. Groups report that very basic accommodation - a single room with shared bathroom and kitchen - costs $400 -$450 per month. Single people on social assistance who choose to allocate a portion of their basic needs allowance towards shelter must use food banks in order to eat. This presents a problem for housing workers who are trying to match clients with affordable accommodation.
Rents are increasing
Rents are reported to be rising for both newly vacant units and for "in situ" tenants whose rents have been below "maximum allowable" levels, sometimes for years. This information comes from service agencies which typically deal with tenants paying low-end of market rent. PHIF projects, particularly the Housing Help- Special Projects, are tracking the extent to which rising rents (i.e. subsequent to vacancy decontrol) are an added impediment for their clients in securing new housing. They are also tracking rent increases to "maximum allowable" which put long-standing tenants at risk of losing their housing.
Finding affordable housing is very time consuming
Many people are competing for the few rooms or apartments that are available. One example given by Romero House which is helping homeless new Canadians find permanent housing is as follows:
Finding available affordable housing is labour intensive and time consuming.
The most vulnerable people are having the most difficulties
It is very difficult to convince landlords to accept people who have mental health issues, are struggling with substance abuse or have behavioural problems. Landlords can pick and choose who they house due to tight market conditions. In addition, keeping more vulnerable tenants housed is also labour intensive and requires flexibility on behalf of landlords who are becoming less and less tolerant with vulnerable tenants.
New social assistance funding is having a positive impact on people's housing
Many of the most vulnerable people in the City are social assistant recipients with dependent children. Recent changes in guidelines for the Community Start-up fund (for all social assistance recipients) and a new Shelter Fund (for families) means more money is available to vulnerable people to pay outstanding rent, first and last month's rent, moving expenses and so on. Housing workers report that in the first few month since these guideline changes were made, they have had much more contact with welfare offices about the new entitlements.
In conclusion, projects have started to provide one-on-one supports through direct services to clients. New approaches to helping people find and keep appropriate shelters are being supported through collaboration, involvement of people with experience in homelessness and new partnerships. The project work is challenging and time consuming as the level of need for direct intervention is high and the obstacles facing clients using these services are complex and not easily resolved.
PHIF resources have made new initiatives possible at a time when general trends in the low-end housing market are not favouring clients with complex problems and in the number of people needing assistance is growing.
5. Plans for the Expanded Initiative
Based on preliminary findings and ongoing consultations with community organizations that work with homeless people a Request for Proposals for the expanded initiative has been issued. Priorities in this second RFP include the following:
More detailed information is included in the new Request for Proposals, attached.
Appendix "A"
Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund
Interim Report Summaries
Housing Help: Special Projects
The goal of these 7 projects is to prevent evictions by helping people who are at risk of losing their housing and to help homeless people find and keep appropriate housing. Emphasis is on helping the most vulnerable people through direct one-on-one supports.
Each project has been developed to meet local community needs across the City of Toronto, and differs according to local needs and available resources. Therefore approaches to outreach, service coordination and direct services differ by district.
1.Etobicoke Housing Help Centre c/o
Albion Neighbourhood Services
PHIF Project:Housing Support/Eviction Prevention
Landlord tenant mediation
Counselling
Housing information
Follow-up
Evaluation by previously homeless individuals
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:staff hired May for one year
Grant amount:$50,000
2.Scarborough Housing Help Centre
c/o Agincourt Community Services Association
PHIF Project:Preventing Homelessness
Moving from shelters to housing
Rent bank emergency financial assistance
Landlord outreach
Mediation with tenants and landlords
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:May 10, staff seconded for one year
Grant amount:$50,000
3.North York Housing Help Centre
c/o COSTI
PHIF Project:Longer term support for clients vulnerable to homelessness
Intensive tailored supports - one on one
Mentoring, modeling, life skills
Involves volunteers with experience of homelessness
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:May, staff hired for one year
Grant amount:$50,000
4.East York/East Toronto Family Resources
PHIF Project:Homelessness Prevention
Landlord tenant mediation
Advocacy
Establish long term housing solutions with stakeholders
Data base for available housing (locally)
Raise awareness of housing as an issue
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:May 17/99 to May 19/00, 2 p/t Staff hired for one year
Grant Amount:$50,000
5.York Community Services
PHIF Project:Eviction Prevention and Outreach
Outreach at eight food banks
Create new links between families and individuals at risk and housing supports
Project goals:Contact with 120 people per week, of which 10-12 will require intensive counselling, each appointment is about 40 minutes
Interim results:
Dates:Staff hired, April 6/99 to Mar 31/00
Grant Amount: $46,676
6.WoodGreen Community Information Centre
Info Link
PHIF Project:Housing Support and Information
Maintain information base/local housing registry
Link with shelters and hostels to find appropriate space
Liaison with Toronto Social Housing Connections
Mediation services, referrals
Volunteers trained to assist clients
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:Staff hired in May for one year
Grant Amount:$50,000
7.West Toronto Community Legal Services
Community Peer Advocates Project
PHIF Project:Homelessness Prevention
Advocate training and skills development
Community education and outreach at community forums
Develop circle of contacts with tenants and landlords
Negotiation and mediation - direct service under supervision of lawyer
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:Two peer advocates hired in May for one year
Grant amount:$50,000
Crisis Supports for Vulnerable Tenants and Landlords
The goal of this priority area is to help vulnerable homeless people access and maintain permanent housing through the provision of direct services and to assist relevant landlords as necessary.
8. Evangel Hall
PHIF Project:Direct referrals and advocacy with known landlords
Provide support to housing providers
Develop new landlord contacts
Direct support to people looking for housing
Network with other agencies on common problems and solutions
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:Staff hired in March for a one year period.
Grant amount:$50,000
Initiatives for Homeless Aboriginal People
The goal of this priority area is to work with small groups of homeless aboriginal people to help them identify and address their housing needs and to develop self-help and mutual support among the group.
9.Anishnawbe Health Toronto
PHIF Project:Biindged
Breakfast Program
Foot and bike patrols
Facilitate group work
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:February 1, 1999 to January 31, 2000
Grant amount:$ 50,000
10.Native Child and Family Services
PHIF Project:Housing Advocate Worker
Provide appropriate housing opportunities for native youth
Develop transitional housing program
Facilitate individual and group empowerment
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:June 9, 1999 for one year, one new staff person hired
Grant amount:$50,000
Access to Settlement Services and Housing for New Canadians
The goal of this priority area is to provide interim housing and supports to refugees when they are waiting for eligibility documents and are not eligible for social assistance and to provide assistance in finding and securing permanent housing.
11.Romero House
PHIF Project:Assist homeless refugees in accessing temporary housing until they have obtained eligibility documents and are eligible for social assistance; and to help refugees find and secure appropriate stable housing.
Project goals:Comprehensive assistance to 5 adults per month or 60 per year.
Interim results:11 adults and their families have been provided with temporary housing and 5 families have been successfully housed in permanent housing.
Dates:Service began in February 1999.
Grant amount:$50,000
Community/Business Initiatives
The goal of this priority area is for community groups to work with local businesses, residents etc. to develop innovative responses to homelessness.
12.Warden Woods Community Centre
PHIF Project:Conflict management training for landlords in Scarborough to help them respond more effectively to conflict between landlords and tenants thus reducing the possibility of eviction.
Project goals:
Interim results:
Dates:Project started in March and will finish in November.
Grant amount:$7,958
13.Christie-Ossington Neighbourhood Centre
PHIF Project:"Co-ordinating Community Capacity" Initiative to work with community organizations, businesses, and homeless and marginally housed people to develop local responses to homelessness.
Project goals:Provide 35 hours per week of service organizing meetings of local organizations, residents groups, BIAs etc. in three neighbourhoods. Projected targets for participants in each neighbourhood: 25 local residents, 30 homeless/marginally housed people, 25 businesses and 5 - 7 community organizations.
Interim results:Initial outreach is underway as per submitted work plan for the project. Community meetings begin in July.
Dates:Staff hired in May 1999 for one year.
Grant amount:$41,490
Housing for Chronic Hostel Users
The goal of this project priority area is to develop strategies which will result in the placing of chronic hostel users in permanent housing
14.Progress Place
PHIF Project:"Double Trouble" pilot project that helps people with both addictions and mental health issues assume more responsibility for moving from hostels and into more permanent forms of housing.
Project goals:
Interim results:All four projects are up and running with 15 participants.
Dates:The project started in April 1999.
Grant amount:$50,000
15.West Hill Community Services
PHIF Project:To work with repeat users of hostels and motels in Scarborough to resolve immediate crises and secure and maintain stable housing.
Project goals:40 hours of service to individuals and families per week starting with an initial caseload of 14.
Interim results:Project is in initial organizational and orientation stage as per submitted work plan.
Dates:Staff hired on May 15, 1999.
Grant amount:$50,000
Skills Development Initiatives
This priority area is for community economic development initiates which will help homeless people or those at risk of homelessness develop new skills, engage in new work experiences or receive entrepreneurial assistance in order to help stabilize their lives and reduce the risk of homelessness.
16.Second Base Youth Shelter
PHIF Project:A training and catering project for homeless youth residing at the Second Base Youth shelter. Youth completing the program are referred for job placement. Funding pays for a training costs and honoraria for participants.
Project goals:A six week training session with 6 participants. Each client will receive 96 hours of instruction in all aspects of food services.
Interim results:On target with 6 participants.
Dates:Course started on June 7, 1999.
Grant amount:$24,735
17.761 Development Corporation
PHIF Project:A training project for women involved in the "Clothes for Change" and "Inspirations" Community Economic Development projects. The women will be trained to develop a community business planning framework and community business plans for women's community businesses.
Project goals:Hire 6 women who have experienced homelessness to research, develop and produce the community business plans.
Interim results:Project has started and 6 women have been hired.
Dates:Project started April 1, 1999 and will be complete by December 31, 1999.
Grant amount:$25,000
18.Fred Victor Centre
PHIF Project:Development of community businesses and individual micro enterprises with homeless and marginally housed members of the Fred Victor drop-in.
Project goals:Work directly with 12-15 people. Project participants to receive 3 - 5 hours of week in a group training setting plus 1 to 3 hours per week of individual support from staff.
Interim results:Project is on target in terms of service targets.
Dates:One p/t staff position was funded. Project began in March 1999 and will be completed by December 1999.
Grant amount:$25,000
Innovations for People Experiencing Homelessness
The goals of this priority area is to utilize the skills, imagination and ideas of homeless people to develop small scale projects that will be of benefit to their peers, their neighbourhood, or the greater community. Seven projects were chosen at $5,000 or less per project. The intent of this project area is to incubate new ideas and test them out.
19.University Settlement House
PHIF Project:To train "peers", homeless and under housed participants of the USH "out of the Cold" program in starting up a nutritious meal program for homeless people.
Project goals:Train 2 participants as co-ordinators, involve 10-20 participant volunteers.
Provide one lunch per week for 50 people for a period of 20 weeks.
Interim results:Participant have been recruited and trained. The lunch program has begun.
Dates:Project started in February 1999 and will run for 20 weeks. Lunch operation started in June 1999.
Grant Amount:$4,420
20.Native Canadian Centre
PHIF Project:Employment of Homeless aboriginal people in the "odd Job Street Squad" with the aim of building bridges between local residents and businesses with homeless people by providing casual labour aimed at neighbourhood improvement.
Project goals:Provide 450 hours of paid work to homeless people.
Interim results:106.25 hours of paid work have been provided.
Dates:The project started on March 23, 1999.
Grant Amount:$5,000
21.Parkdale Focus Community
PHIF Project:Hiring a housing outreach worker who has experienced homelessness to initiate contact and form relationships with people living on the streets in Parkdale and provide housing/shelter related support.
Project goals:Provide 9 hours of direct service to clients per week.
Interim results:A total of 40 clients have been served averaging 3-4 clients per week at 1 -2 hours per client.
Dates:Part-time staff hired in March 1999.
Grant Amount:$5,000
22. Caring Alliance c/o Birchmount Bluffs Neighbourhood Centre
PHIF Project:Utilizing the skills of homeless people to help their peers move from "motels" and shelters on the Kingston Road strip in Scarborough.
Project goals:90 hours of service per month with 3 - 4 families re-settled.
Interim results:12 to 16 people who have experienced homelessness will work on a one-time monthly basis.
Dates:The project started in April 1999 and will be completed in December 1999.
Grant Amount:$5,000
23.St. Christopher House (Meeting Place Drop-in)
PHIF Project:Development and production of a newsletter produced by homeless and marginally housed drop-in members for distribution in the community and to develop better relationships with local businesses.
Project goals:Five participants will work with a staff facilitator from 5 - 15 hours per week depending on the stage of newsletter production. In addition 20 members of the drop-in will be contributors. Estimated production of the newsletter is 1000 copies, four times per year.
Interim results:On target. The first edition has been produced.
Dates:Project started in February 1999.
Grant Amount:$5,000
24.Cobblestone Theatre c/o Mixed Company
PHIF Project:Funds to train and remunerate people who have experienced homelessness to develop and write a new play about life on the streets.
Project goals:Provide assistance to 3 members of the theatre troupe to develop the outline of the play. An additional 10 members will be involved in script development and consultation.
Interim results:Three members are in the process of developing the play outline.
Dates:The project started in April 1999 and is ongoing.
Grant Amount:$5,000
25.Cobblestone Theatre Youth Troupe c/o Mixed Company
PHIF Project:Funds to produce and perform the interactive play about life on the streets "Wild Child" in suburban Toronto.
Project goals:5 to 10 performances involving four members of the troupe who have experienced homelessness.
Interim results:2 performances have been staged with an average of 100 people per show. Cast members are involved in 4 hours of rehearsal and 1.5 hours of performance and debriefing.
Dates:The project started in April 1999.
Grant Amount:$5,000
PHIF funding was also allocated to:
26.Eva's Place (11 Ordnance)
PHIF Project:A grant of $100,000 was allocated for training and construction costs of "Eva's Phoenix", an innovative housing project for homeless youth located at 11 Ordnance Street, Toronto.
Project goals:Eva's Phoenix will provide accommodation for 50 homeless youth at assist them to leave shelters and live independently. By doing this, the project will keep these youth from graduating directly into adult hostels. Homeless youth will be employed in the construction of the facility.
Interim results:Site preparation and demolition began April 6, 1999.
Dates:Training and construction start planned for the summer of 1999.
Grant amount:$100,000
27.Neighbourhood Information Post
PHIF Project:Funding to administer a Rent Bank pilot project for low income single parent tenants facing eviction.
Project goals:Administer $23,000 in loans to single parent low income tenants facing eviction.
Interim results:Not available
Dates:June 1, 1999 to November 30, 1,999.
Grant amount:$5,000
| Funding for this initiative is provided by the Province of Ontario and the City of Toronto
Application Deadline: 4:30 p.m., Friday, July 16, 1999 |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
General Program Criteria
Types of Funding
Project Priorities
Eligibility Criteria
Time Lines
Evaluation of Proposals
Reporting Requirements
Contact for the City of Toronto
Appendix "A" (Detailed Outline of Project Priorities)
Appendix "B" (Application Format)
CITY OF TORONTO
HOMELESS INITIATIVES FUND
INTRODUCTION:
The City of Toronto Homeless Initiatives Fund (CT - HIF) combines the City's Homeless Initiatives Fund (HIF) and the Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund (PHIF) into one program with a common application, selection and evaluation process.
Background:
The City's Homeless Initiatives Fund (HIF) was created in 1992 by the former City of Toronto. The HIF was based on the former City of Toronto's "Off The Streets" policy which recognized that homelessness is a multi-faceted problem which requires a variety of different problem solving approaches depending on the individual circumstances of homeless people.
The Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund (PHIF) was established following the release of the report of the Provincial Task Force on Homelessness on October 8, 1998. The intent of this funding is to support new innovative approaches to addressing homelessness.
The New City of Toronto Homeless Initiatives Fund:
Funding for the new CT-HIF includes an allocation of $4.724 million to the City of Toronto from the Province as well as an allocation of $881,100 from the City of Toronto. This Request for Proposals (RFP) totals $2, 250,000. A second RFP will be issued in the fall of 1999. Staff will continue to consult with community groups about priority setting for this second RFP.
The intent of the CT-HIF is to expand the City's response to homelessness across the new City by funding a broad range of new initiatives that have a measurable impact on preventing homelessness, helping people access emergency shelters or moving them from the hostels into more permanent forms of accommodation, thus freeing up needed space within the shelter system. The CT-HIF is not intended to replace funding for existing services, or to duplicate funding from any other program.
The CT-HIF will establish funding priorities based on the recommendations of the Mayor's Homeless Action Task Force and will consult with community groups that work with homeless people on an ongoing basis to ascertain emerging needs in the community.
GENERAL PROGRAM CRITERIA:
The City's Agreement with the Province specifies that funds are to be used for new, innovative community based programs which achieve one or more of the following "outcomes":
1)Assisting people to move from the streets to emergency accommodation;
2)Assisting people to move from emergency to permanent accommodation; and
3)Preventing homelessness by supporting the retention of stable accommodation.
In addition, priority will be given to:
4)Developing strategies which result in longer term solutions to homelessness;
5)Funding projects which create efficiencies elsewhere in the "system"of services to homeless people;
6)Providing direct services to homeless people or those at risk of homelessness;
7)Including homeless people in projects through employment and in the planning, implementation and evaluation stages; and
8)Including qualitative and quantitative evaluation methods to ensure that the program meets its goals and objectives and that individual projects are effective.
The CT-HIF will be used to support new initiatives that best serve the needs of homeless people or people who are at risk of losing their housing. There are a wide variety of people who are homeless or face homelessness. This includes people who are at risk of becoming homeless because they live in unsafe or unaffordable housing, people who have recently found themselves homeless due to economic circumstances or other reasons, people who are living on the streets, in parks or ravines, or in emergency shelters. This includes youths, adults, seniors, single people and families.
It is expected that projects funded through the CT-HIF will have a measurable impact on other related municipal services to homeless people. For example, helping people maintain their tenancy will keep them out of the shelter system. Assisting chronic hostel users to develop the skills necessary to access and maintain more appropriate forms of accommodation frees up much needed space within the shelter system. CT-HIF projects, therefore, will help people develop longer term solutions which, in turn, will help improve the overall efficiency of services to homeless people in Toronto.
The City is particularly interested in identifying issues and working closely with CT-HIF funded project staff to develop strategies that will result in long term solutions to homelessness. In addition to the formal reporting requirements, explained later in this document, successful applicants should anticipate participating in steering committees or resource groups to ensure that implementation strategies are effective and co-ordinated, and to share information and make connections to additional resources that are available through government or community based programs.
Involvement of People who have experienced homelessness:
A Priority of the CT-HIF is to employ people who have experienced homelessness or have witnessed, first hand, some of the problems that this proposal call seeks to address. Our evaluations show that effective projects hire or include "peers" in the provision of services. This is a particularly important strategy because people who have experienced homelessness understand its full physical, emotional, and psychological toll. Priority will be given to proposals which include, the involvement of people who have experienced homelessness in all aspects of the project including planning, implementation and evaluation.
Data Collection
Successful proposals will also include both qualitative and quantitative data collection components. Quantitative data would include, for example, numbers of people served, numbers of instances of intervention, numbers of evictions prevented, etc. The City is also interested in the quality of the service provided, what interventions work and which don't, emerging issues, how collaboration between agencies or services can result in more efficient service delivery, etc.
Evaluation
The City will be conducting formal ongoing evaluations of the CT-HIF in order to ensure that the program is successful in reaching its objectives. Groups that are funded through this proposal call will be asked to participate in this evaluation.
In summary, a successful project proposal will:
TYPES OF FUNDING:
The CT-HIF will fund the following three types of projects:
1) Innovations
One year funding of up to $10,000 to develop new ideas, attract other funders, build partnerships with other sectors etc.
2) Pilot and Demonstration Projects
Funding for up to three years for new initiatives that provide services which are currently not available. Projects will be evaluated after each year to determine their eligibility for continuing funding. A detailed project review will be conducted at the end of the project. City staff will work with project steering committees. Strategies to include other levels of government or other potential funders, and/or fund-raising plans will be required.
3) Ongoing City Funding
Projects which demonstrate that they provide essential services and develop long term solutions to homelessness will be eligible for ongoing funding. These projects could be cost shared with other levels of government.
In this Proposal Call, projects previously funded through the City's Homeless Initiatives Fund in 1998/99 will be eligible for follow up funding from the City's component of the CT-HIF.
PROJECT PRIORITIES FOR THIS PROPOSAL CALL:
After consultations with community groups that work with homeless people, 9 specific project areas have been targeted for funding. They are as follows: (Please see Appendix "A" for a detailed outline of each target area)
1)Services to People Living Outside ($200,000)
A maximum of $200,000 is available in this category to provide supports to two different target groups. The first group is very socially isolated and is located in remote parts of ravines and parks. The second group is located in more accessible, built up areas. The projects are as follows:
A)Outreach and Support Project for Socially Isolated Street Survivors (Up to $150,000)
Funding is available for up to $150,000 to develop contact, provide assistance and connect socially isolated homeless people who live in parks and ravines with appropriate supports and to assist their transition to shelters.
Funding is available for up to $50,000 to established a community based support initiative which will assist people living in more built up urban areas, on the streets, in lanes and in downtown parks access appropriate supports and shelters.
2)Housing and Hunger Initiatives ($250,000)
Funding is available for up to 5 projects at a maximum of $25,000 each and the balance of funding for several smaller projects at a maximum of $10,000 per project. Proposals will be for projects to support vulnerable tenants (including rooming house residents) by ensuring access to affordable nutritious foods. Priority will be given to projects that bring programming to under serviced geographic areas and/or communities of common bond, and include local residents in program design and implementation.
3)Enhanced Drop-in Services to Homeless People ($250,000)
Funding is available for 5 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for collaborative responses from drop-in programs attempting to address the social needs of the homeless population. This funding initiative is for program services not funded through the Emergency Support Fund (ESF). Priority will be given to projects in under-served geographic communities and/or communities of common bond.
4)Chronic Hostel Users Pilot Project ($200,000)
A maximum of $200,000 is available in this category to fund 2 large projects or several smaller projects. Proposals will be for projects that assist chronic hostel users access and maintain more permanent forms of housing. It should be noted that this funding initiative is for difficult situations that will not be addressed through the Hostel Redirection Initiative. Chronic hostels users are defined as individuals who use the hostel system for one year or more. Successful strategies will help to free up shelter beds for short-term emergency use.
5)New Canadians Housing Access Project ($150,000)
A maximum of $150,000 is available in this category. Up to $100,000 is available for proposals to work with shelter and drop-in providers to assist new Canadians, including refugee claimants who are not eligible for settlement assistance, to secure and maintain more permanent forms of housing. In addition, funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $25,000 per project to work with homeless, socially isolated new Canadians who are not accessing available services.
6)Housing Supports for the Aboriginal Community ($100,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for projects to work with homeless aboriginal women and homeless aboriginal women and their children to identify and address housing and support needs and to develop opportunities for self help and mutual support.
7)Enhanced Housing Help/ Eviction Prevention ($450,000)
Funding is available for a range of initiatives. This request for proposals is for initiatives which assist vulnerable people in securing permanent accommodation and assisting those who are housed maintain their tenancies. Proposals will be accepted for the following:
A)Rent Bank Program (Up to $350,000)
A maximum of $260,000 is available to fund a project which will provide interest free loans to vulnerable tenants facing eviction. In addition, funding is available for 6 "Service Access" locations in different parts of the City with a maximum of $10,000 - $15,000 per project.
B)Trusteeship Projects ($50,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects to a maximum of $25,000 per project. This request for proposals is for initiatives which help people at risk of homelessness improve their ability to access and maintain housing through the provision of financial management and trusteeship services.
C)Extreme Cleaning Services ($50,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects to a maximum of $25,000 per project. This request for proposals is for projects to help tenants who are unable to keep their housing clean and are facing eviction.
A range of funding is available to initiate new projects and expand existing initiatives. Funding levels of $10,000 (for start-up) to a maximum of $50,000 (for more comprehensive projects) will be considered. This request for proposals is for initiatives designed to break down social isolation among homeless people through community businesses and employment initiatives, and to develop viable employment options for low income vulnerable people.
9)Access to Housing and Supports ($450,000)
Funding is available for the following two initiatives:
A)Low Income Singles Housing Support Program ($200,000)
Funding is available for one project with a maximum of $200,000. This request for proposals is for a comprehensive access, monitoring and support program serving vulnerable low income single people and their landlords. Program activities should include a range of activities from urgent relocation to longer term support and intervention strategies in the rooming house sector and/or in other forms of singles housing.
B)Integrated Housing Access and Support Services for Youth ($250,000)
Funding is available for up to 5 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for projects which establish contacts with young people who are on the streets or living in precarious housing and assist them in accessing and maintaining safe and stable housing.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
Community based non-profit organizations located in the City of Toronto are eligible to apply subject to the specific criteria outlined in the project priorities. Applicants must be able to meet the City of Toronto requirements for grant recipients. The City's Declaration of Non-Discrimination Policy form must be submitted or on file before funding can be granted. Please note that as project funding is limited, not all project submissions will receive funding. In order to create efficiencies and avoid duplication of funding, information supplied in your proposal may be shared with other funders.
TIME LINES:
Proposals are due by 4:30 PM, Friday, July16, 1999. LATE PROPOSALS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS:
Written proposals will be evaluated by a selection team during July and early August. An interview with applicants may be requested. The selection team will review proposals taking into consideration the following:
Please note that projects recommended for funding will be subject to the approval of Toronto City Council.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS:
Successful applicants will be asked to submit a written interim report by January 31, 2000 and a final written report with full financial accounting at the end of the project (Date to be determined). The report should include data collected during the operation of the project. Project groups will also be asked to participate in a formal evaluation of the program.
Project groups may be asked to present verbal progress reports to Committees of Council. In addition, where appropriate, project staff may be asked to participate in focus groups that identify common problems, create efficiencies, and share successful strategies.
CONTACT FOR THE CITY OF TORONTO
Simon Liston, City of Toronto Homeless Initiatives Fund
Community and Neighbourhood Services Department
Shelter, Housing and Support Division
Metro Hall, 55 John Street, 7th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, M5V 3C6
Telephone: 392-0602Fax: 392-0560 e.mail: sliston@city.toronto.on.ca
Send completed proposals to the above address.
Appendix "A"
Detailed Outline of Project Priorities
1)Services to People Living Outside ($200,000)
As homelessness burgeons in the City an increasing number of people are "sleeping in the rough" in parks, ravines, and under bridges rather than in overcrowded shelters or in precarious or unsafe housing. Community agencies who have made contact with these people report that they come from diverse backgrounds and are living a wide variety of lifestyles. Some are outgoing, resourceful, and seek the company of others, while others are extremely socially isolated and are distrustful of existing support services available in the community.
This request for proposals is for two different services that will make contact, establish relationships, and provide supports to: A) socially isolated homeless people hidden in more remote parts of the City and for whom very few appropriate supports currently exist; and B) people who are living on the streets, in lanes and in parks in close proximity to the downtown core and in other built up areas of the City.
The goal of this Proposal Call is to establish ongoing contact and provide appropriate non-judgmental services to socially isolated men who are living in physically isolated parts of the City such as ravines, parklands, under bridges or in self-constructed domiciles. This project will provide supports to a "hard to reach" population, predominantly male, who are not accessing services available in the community and involves "field work" in isolated parts of the City.
Research undertaken by Mental Health Program Services (Habitat) in 1997-98 shows that this is very diverse group. Although all "street survivors", they live a wide variety of lifestyles ranging from complete social isolation to smaller groupings of people. Although some survivors use mainstream services on an "as-needed" basis they tend to avoid ongoing contact either through fear, mistrust or other reasons.
A pilot project funded through the Homeless Initiatives Fund in 1998-99 was successful in establishing contact with a wide variety of individuals, providing a range of supports, and connecting those who were willing with needed services. The pilot project indicates that a more comprehensive project built on non-judgmental approaches and harm reduction principles can be effective helping this target group begin the long process of reconnecting to society.
The key components of this project are:
A successful project proposal will demonstrate knowledge and experience of working with this target group, include a clear work plan which shows how supports and services will be delivered in a non-judgmental manner, outline how project staff will be provided with support, and note how other service providers will be involved in the project.
Lack of affordable housing and limited space in hostels and shelters has led to an increase in the numbers of people sleeping outside in a variety of different places including the streets, parks, residential and commercial lanes and doorways. Outreach workers and community agencies who work with this population indicate that this is not a homogenous group but includes all genders, age groups, ethnic backgrounds, those who are clean and sober as well as people with mental health problems, substance abuse issues or both.
In the winter months, people sleeping outside are in danger due to extremely cold weather The problem, however, is acute all year long as wet weather in the spring and fall, or extreme heat in the summer places lives at risk. In addition, in recent months, the increased numbers of people seeking to stay more permanently in parks and other open spaces has led to an increased tension between local businesses, area residents, community agencies, churches, the police department and homeless people themselves.
There have been some successful examples, in recent years of how diverse groups have been able to work together to address complex homeless issues. Community members in the St. Lawrence neighbourhood recently launched the "Toronto Dollar" initiative whereby 10% of the proceeds are donated to projects which benefit homeless people. The Caring Alliance, a volunteer organization of faith groups and community services in Scarborough has developed a program to assist families who live in the hostels and motels in the Kingston Road corridor.
The key components of this project are:
2)Housing and Hunger Initiatives ($250,000)
Funding is available for 5 projects at a maximum of $25,000 each, and for several smaller projects at maximum of $10,000 per project. These projects will be designed to support vulnerable tenants (including rooming house residents) by ensuring access to affordable nutritious foods.
This proposal call is designed to increase the capacity of vulnerable tenants to acquire food, so that either: a) their food costs do not result in them missing rent payments; or b) their intake of nutritious foods increases, thereby improving their health status.
Income, housing, food access and hunger are intimately connected. Food bank surveys regularly report that clients sacrifice their food intake to maintain their housing. The Scarborough Hunger Coalition conducted a food security survey in 1996 of low-income families, including those at risk of losing their housing. They found that 82.5% of households had often or sometimes run out of food. A 1998 study conducted by the University of Toronto assessed the food insecurity and nutritional vulnerability of women living with children using food banks. Over 90% reported household incomes that were less than two-thirds of the Statistics Canada Low-Income Cut-Offs. Results indicated that 93.5% experienced some degree of food insecurity in the previous year, and many reported food deprivation (hunger) in spite of charitable food assistance and other strategies to stretch their resources. These women had a high prevalence of inadequate intakes of iron, magnesium, vitamin A, folate, and calcium. The long term impact of chronically low nutrient intakes is of concern, especially since they place women at risk for poor health outcomes (e.g. osteoporosis).
Many community-based food projects are attempting to increase the access of low-income people, often in association with shelter-related projects. The food projects relevant to this initiative may include:
Projects are required to gather data on outcomes. Successful outcomes would include:
3)Enhanced Drop-in Services to Homeless People ($250,000)
Funding is available for 5 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for collaborative responses from drop-in programs to the social needs of the homeless population. The funding is intended to provide innovative models of service delivery, to support collaboration between drop-in programs for homeless people and to support service development in under served geographic communities and/or communities of common bond. This initiative is not intended to replace funding available from the Emergency Support Fund (ESF).
The Mayor's Homelessness Action Task Force recognized that drop-ins play a vital role in keeping people housed and helping people survive homelessness. They function as a "home away from home" for many homeless and socially isolated people and provide a range of useful services ranging from basic needs such as showers and laundry facilities, to personal supports, health care, crisis support, and information and referral services. The types and levels of services vary considerably, however, from drop-in to drop-in according to the population served and available funding levels. There is a distinct lack of services in some parts of the City.
The Task Force also recognized the effectiveness of "self-help" in the delivery of drop-in services. People who have experienced homelessness can be very effective when working with peers because they can relate to the issues and problems that are a common source of day to day frustration. Some of the most innovative project ideas in this sector have come from drop-in members themselves.
Project proposals must be collaborative. Groups of at least 3 community based, not-for-profit drop-in programs are invited to submit proposals that address unmet needs in their community. Examples of services include personal supports, crisis intervention, and information and referral to shelters and housing, and other specialized services.
Proposals should be for 12 months of service delivery with clear outcomes and impacts. They should focus on services to the homeless population within a specific geographic area or within a particular community of common bond. Successful proposals will demonstrate the ability to collaborate in developing and implementing an integrated service delivery program.
Key component of this project include:
4)Chronic Hostel Users Pilot ($200,000)
A maximum of $200,000 is available in this category to fund 2 large projects or several smaller projects. Proposals will be for projects that assist chronic hostel users to develop the skills to access and maintain more permanent forms of housing. Successful strategies will help to free up shelter beds for short-term emergency use. It should be noted that this funding initiative is for difficult situations that will not be addressed through the Hostel Redirection Initiative.
The Mayor's Homelessness Action Task Force in its Interim Report reported that the chronic homeless population represents a small percentage of the total homeless population but uses a disproportionate share of the resources. The report noted that about 17% of those who use the shelter system are chronic users in that they stay in the hostel system for a year or more and are thus less likely to be able to leave the system.
Most chronic hostel users are single men or single women and tend to be over 35 years of age. Many have also been involved with the psychiatric or correctional systems. Target groups within the chronic hostel user population could include:
Chronic hostel users have specific difficulties accessing and maintaining more suitable and permanent forms of accommodation. Key issues to be addressed include:
Successful outcomes would include:
Proposals should indicate consultation and/or support from emergency shelters serving chronic hostel users. Specific shelters already identified as serving a high proportion of chronic users include Women's Residence, Salvation Army Maxwell Meighen Shelter, Seaton House, Street Haven, and the Good Shepherd Refuge.
5)New Canadians Housing Access Project ($150,000)
A maximum of $150,000 is available in this category. Funding is available for one project with a maximum of $100,000 to work with Shelter and Drop-in providers to assist new Canadians, including refugee claimants who are not eligible for settlement assistance, to secure and maintain more permanent forms of housing. In addition, funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $25,000 per project to work with more socially isolated new Canadians who are not accessing available services.
Between 70,000 - 80,000 immigrants and refugees come to Toronto each year. The Mayor's Homelessness Action Task Force highlights the fact that these new Canadians face unique challenges. Many are caught in the backlog of refugee claims, many cannot practice their profession because their qualifications are not recognized, and many face difficulties in securing more permanent forms of accommodation because they do not understand the "system" in Canada. Other barriers include discrimination by landlords who will not rent to visible minorities or welfare recipients. Most at risk are refugee claimants who do not receive federally sponsored settlement services or financial assistance. Many arrive in Canada with very little money and few possessions.
Settlement support and housing help for this group has been provided in an ad hoc manner by volunteers, the faith community, and by staff at some hostels who are often not trained to provide the specialized services that are needed. Despite these obstacles there have been successful efforts to provide assistance particularly by former refugees themselves.
A)New Canadians Housing Access Service ($100,000)
This project will work with shelters and drop-ins to provide a comprehensive one-stop shopping program that will help low income new Canadians access and maintain permanent housing. The use of "peers" in the provision of services is desirable. A successful proposal will demonstrate:
In addition, the project will be expected to demonstrate and document how this initiative helps minimize shelter use, improve access to housing, and reduce instances of homelessness amongst the target group. A provision to secure additional funding from other sources should be included.
B)Social Connections for Isolated New Canadians ($50,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $25,000 per project to work with socially low income new Canadians and refugees who are not connecting with available support services.
Service providers have identified an increasing number of new Canadians and refugees who are not accessing community and ethno-cultural services due to debilitating factors such as post-trauma stress, substance abuse, and or mental health problems. This group is particularly vulnerable to homelessness unless strategic interventions can be made to connect them with peers and/or other supports.
A variety of proposals will be considered including ones which target specific at-risk groups or ethno-cultural communities.
Successful outcomes would include:
6)Housing Supports for the Aboriginal Community ($100,000)
This proposal call is directed to agencies run by and serving First Nations people. Funding is available for two projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. The goal of projects funded through this proposal call is to help homeless aboriginal women and women and children identify and address their housing needs, and to develop opportunities for self help and mutual support.
The Aboriginal population in Toronto has experienced a significant increase the number of singles and families who are experiencing homelessness. The Homeless Initiative Fund allocations earlier this year, supported projects which address needs in the single male street population, for both adults and youth. These projects have begun to build relationships with groups of Aboriginal people, connecting them to housing, employment and health supports.
The goal of the projects funded under this current request for proposals is to work with homeless women and homeless women and their children. These women may be living on the streets, in shelters, doubled up in overcrowded or otherwise unsuitable accommodation or at risk of losing their housing.
In the Mayor's Homelessness Action Task Force report, several issues specific to Aboriginal women were identified. These were: the legacy of physical and sexual abuse (both current and in early life), high levels of family violence, young women who are homeless becoming pregnant and 80% to 90% of female headed households falling below the poverty line.
The projects funded in this component should build on the work and experience of Aboriginal organizations in Toronto. Where community scans, needs assessments, observations of Aboriginal women or agency staff, or other documentation is available to support the proposal, these should be attached. Partnerships are encouraged where this helps advance the aims of the project.
Projects should be prepared to analyze which interventions work and which don't, the extent to which people have been helped to find and/or maintain their housing, and how people have been helped in other ways (e.g income, personal support, health).
7)Enhanced Housing Help/ Eviction Prevention ($450,000)
This request for proposals is for initiatives which assist vulnerable people to secure permanent accommodation and help them maintain their tenancies. Proposals will be accepted for the following:
A)Rent Bank Program (Up to $350,000)
The goal of the Rent Bank Program is to reduce evictions and homelessness by providing interest free loans, in conjunction with other forms of housing assistance, to eligible tenants.
A Rent Bank Pilot Project which began in September 1998 with a $40,000 loan fund, was able to help about 44 women and their children avoid eviction by providing interest free loans. Loans in the Pilot Project were typically $1,100 and were used to pay outstanding arrears to landlords. Loans will continue to be drawn from this fund until the expanded Rent Bank Program is operational.
The 1999/2000 Rent Bank Program requires: a financial manager for a $200,000 loan fund; a service plan which takes into consideration recommendations of a final evaluation of the Rent Bank Pilot project, the views of Steering Committee members and other stakeholders associated with the pilot project; and 6 locations to be designated as Service Access points.
Copies of the Rent Bank Pilot Project Evaluation: Interim Report are available for Organizations submitting proposals to review. The successful proposal will also be expected to incorporate additional recommendations contained in the final evaluation report which will be completed in the late summer of 1999.
There are two separate components of the Program which should be applied for separately:
1) Financial Administration, Service Planning and Co-ordination ( $200,000 loan fund plus $60,000 for service planning, co-ordination and administration); and
2) Service Access (6 locations across the City at $10,000 to $15,000 each).
These two components are linked together, requiring agencies to work collaboratively, and over time, to develop the Rent Bank program to its full potential. Agencies may apply to carry out one or more of the funded activities, although Service Access must be geographically dispersed across the City of Toronto. The details of each component are as follows:
1) Financial Administration, Service Planning and Co-ordination ($200,000 loan fund plus $60,000 for service planning, co-ordination and administration)
Rent Bank loans will be administered by one non-profit agency in Toronto. Financial management includes processing loans, regular financial reports and an evaluation of the financial success and social impacts of the loan program.
The agency carrying out this work will receive approved applications and supporting documentation for Rent Bank loans from the six Service Access locations.
The loan fund administration will:
Service planning and co-ordination:
The successful agency will develop a service plan based on policies and administrative procedures tested during the Pilot Project (A copy of the Interim Report is available). In addition, it is expected that additional recommendations from the final evaluation, to be completed in the late summer of 1999, should be incorporated into service planning of the project. The flexibility to include these recommendations, not currently available, should be incorporated into the Service Plan. The Service Plan should include:
A Steering Committee comprised of representatives from participating agencies, previous loan recipients and funders will provide guidance on service planning and coordination direction. It will be the agency's responsibility to confirm participation and mandate of the Steering Committee, coordinate meetings and activities of the Steering Committee, incorporate input into the Service Plan.
Agencies applying under this component need to demonstrate:
hours, fax, e mail and courier service
2) Service Access (6 Locations X $10,000 to $15,000)
Six agencies will be designated as access locations for loan applications. At these locations, applicants may first receive other services, such as mediation, help accessing income supports and referrals to alternative housing.
The Service access agencies will have established relationships with local landlords, housing providers, legal clinics, food banks, shelters and social service offices. The Rent Bank loan fund will be one of a variety of tools used by staff in these agencies to help clients resolve their housing problems.
Agencies which are providing Service access to the Rent Bank will:
Agencies applying under this component need to demonstrate that they successfully provide:
B) Trusteeship Projects ($50,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects to a maximum of $25,000 per project. This request for proposals is for initiatives which help people at risk of homelessness improve their ability to access and maintain housing through the provision of financial management and trusteeship services.
The goals of the Trusteeship initiative are to:
Proposals that include collaboration between agencies, formal and informal partnerships, and the involvement of people who have experienced homelessness are encouraged.
C) Extreme Cleaning Services ($50,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $25,000 per project.
There are an increasing number of socially isolated and vulnerable tenants who are in danger of losing their housing due to an inability to keep their rooms or apartments up to public health standards. In many cases their housing has deteriorated into such a state that it requires very extensive clean-up services. In addition, some people have great difficulty throwing out items that they have accumulated and consequently their housing is full of a variety of materials which are fire hazards to themselves and others.
Many of these people are in danger of being evicted and will have great difficulty finding alternative affordable accommodation. It is important to restore their housing to a clean state and ensure that supports are provided to keep it that way as the possible alternatives may be institutional. The majority of this target group are single and live alone. Many suffer from mental health and/or physical disabilities. In many cases, the problem is not detected until it has become very serious. Establishing trust and making first contact is often difficult.
There have been very successful examples of projects which hire and train people who have experienced homelessness to provide extreme cleaning services. Working together with other staff, the rooms are cleaned and these vulnerable tenants are connected with the supports they need to maintain their accommodation on an ongoing basis.
A successful proposal will include:
8)Community Economic Development ($200,000)
A range of funding is available to initiate new projects and expand existing initiatives. Funding levels of $10,000 (for start-up) to a maximum of $50,000 (for more comprehensive projects) will be considered. This request for proposals is for initiatives designed to break down social isolation among homeless people and people at risk of homelessness through community businesses and employment initiatives, and the development of viable employment options for low income vulnerable people.
There have been a number of successful community economic development initiatives in Toronto for people who have experienced homelessness. Successful projects have included a number of key components which are critical to their long term success. Successful proposals will demonstrate:
Measures of success should demonstrate that participants in the CED project have been helped to:
9)Access to Housing and Supports ($450,000)
Funding is available for the following two initiatives:
A) Low Income Singles Housing Support Program ($200,000)
Funding is available for one project with a maximum of $200,000. This request for proposals is for a comprehensive access, monitoring and support program for vulnerable low income single people and their landlords. Program activities should include a range of activities from urgent relocation to longer term support and intervention strategies in the rooming house sector and/or in other forms of housing.
In recognition of the complexity of issues facing low income single people housed in rooming houses, boarding homes, lodging houses, apartment hotels, bachelorettes or a variety of other temporary or permanent housing settings, this request for proposals is for a comprehensive Low Income Singles Housing Support Program. The program has three components:
A successful proposal will provide the following services:
Relocation Assistance
Work in conjunction with City staff to coordinate an appropriate relocation response to the closure of unlicensed rooming houses or properties where crises such as fire, no heat or other urgent hazards require temporary or permanent relocation of tenants. In each instance this may require:
Experience dictates that an appropriate response must be tailor made to each circumstance but should also build on what was learned from prior situations. Over the past couple of years there has been a need for such interventions every six to eight weeks.
Housing Help
A well coordinated housing help response requires:
Monitoring and support
This part of the initiative aims to monitor conditions in low income singles housing and to provide supports to landlords and tenants through:
Monitoring and support may be required under the following circumstances:
Such intervention is meant to improve the overall living circumstances for the community of tenants at a particular address. This may require support for an individual, for the landlord or for the whole household. Principal to the strategy is working with City staff to:
Initiatives that demonstrate how to provide effective mediation between tenants, landlord and tenants, landlord and regulatory bodies, and landlord and support agencies will be considered.
The City has historically funded separate agencies to fulfil each of the components of this program. All three component parts - relocation, housing help and monitoring and support - will be funded under this initiative. Collaboration among agencies to achieve the goals set out above are recommended.
B) Integrated Housing Access and Support Services for Youth ($250,000)
This proposal call is targeted to youth serving programs/agencies in order to address the specific needs of homeless youth. This initiative is not intended to fund youth shelters for housing assistance and follow-up with their residents, as youth shelters are eligible for funding under the new Hostel Redirect Initiative.
Funding under this RFP, is available for up to five projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for projects which establish contacts with young people who are on the streets or living in precarious housing and assist them in accessing and maintaining safe and stable housing.
A variety of proposals will be considered and could include projects that work specifically with homeless youth and/or projects that focus on landlords who will rent to young people.
Measures of success should demonstrate that young people who are on the streets or living in precarious housing have:
It is recognized that time is needed to develop trust with young people and that several attempts are often needed before the youth finds stability. Similarly landlords need positive experiences in order to house more young people. The documentation of this process is another important outcome.
Appendix "B"
APPLICATION FORMAT
Please provide 4 copies of the following information typed in this format. If you are applying under more than one Priority Area please submit separate Applications. Attach supporting documentation as noted. Please make sure that you answer all of the following questions.
Proposals are due by 4:30 PM, Friday, July 16, 1999. LATE PROPOSALS WILL NOT BE
ACCEPTED.
1.1 Legal name of Sponsoring Organization:
1.2Address:
1.3Contact Person:
1.4Phone Number:
Fax Number:
e mail:
2.1In what Community Council district (e.g. Etobicoke, York etc.) are you located:
2.2Which City of Toronto ward(s) do you serve:
2.3Types of services your organization provides:
2.4Attach the following:
3.1Project Outline
Indicate which Project Priority you are applying for:
__1) Services to People Living Outside
__ 2) Housing and Hunger Initiatives
__ 3) Enhanced Drop-in Services to Homeless People
__ 4) Chronic Hostel Users Pilot Project
__ 5) New Canadians Housing Access Project
__ 6) Aboriginal Community Skills Development
__ 7) Enhanced Housing Help/ Eviction Prevention
__ 8) Community Economic Development
__9) Access to Housing and Supports
Provide a one paragraph description of the proposed project.
How does the project meet one or more of three provincial "outcomes" (i.e. homelessness prevention, moving people from the streets to shelter or from shelter to more permanent forms of accommodation)
3.2Target Population
Describe why the project is needed and who will benefit from it.
Describe how needs have been identified for your project (e.g. research findings, community scan, needs assessment, your group's prior experience etc.)
3.3Organization and Project Management
Describe the services you intend to offer and how staffing, management and administration will support these services. Please attach an organizational chart for the project, showing links to other services, staff, etc.
Describe the role that people who have experienced homelessness will play in the project.
Provide a timetable and work plan. Where possible describe specific results for activities in the work plan.
Provide a complete project budget including (if applicable) staff salaries and benefits, honoraria, administrative expenses, materials and supplies, other expenses. Please note any other source of funds for the project.
3.4Experience and Partnerships
State your organization's experience in delivering similar or related projects.
List any other community organizations or other groups that will be involved in the development or implementation of the project. Describe the roles of these other groups. (Please attach supporting documentation from each of these organizations or groups).
3.5Evaluation and Data Collection
Describe what data will be collected and how you plan to collect it. Are there any particular issues that you foresee in collecting this data?
Describe how the project will be evaluated and the criteria that will be used.
3.6.Additional information required in specific Project Priority Areas
Please check the detailed description of the Priority Area for which you are applying and attach additional information to support your proposal as necessary.
| Community & Neighbourhood Services
Shelter Housing & Support Division 277 Victoria Street, 11th Floor Toronto, Ontario M5B 1W2 Fax: (416) 392-0560 TTY: (416) 392-0092 CITY OF TORONTO Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund December 1998 Request for Proposals |
| Application Deadline: 4:30 p.m., Friday, January 8, 1999 |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
General Program Criteria
Project Priorities
Eligibility Criteria
Time Lines
Evaluation of Proposals
Reporting Requirements
Contact for the City of Toronto
Appendix "A" (Detailed Outline of Project Priorities)
Appendix "B" (Application Format)
CITY OF TORONTO
PROVINCIAL HOMELESSNESS INITIATIVES FUND
INTRODUCTION:
The report of the Provincial Task Force on Homelessness issued in October 1998 recommended the establishment of a Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund (PHIF) that would be administered by municipalities across Ontario. The PHIF will provide $4 million annually to municipalities across the province. The City of Toronto's share of the fund is $1,020,000. The province has directed that funds are to be used for new, innovative programs which achieve one or more of the following "outcomes":
1)Moving people from the streets to emergency accommodation;
2)Moving people from emergency to permanent accommodation; and
3)Preventing homelessness by supporting the retention of permanent accommodation.
This is the first year of this new initiative. Funds will be provided to the City on an annual basis and the City, in consultation with community groups, will determine the most appropriate use of the funds. Specific projects will be chosen through an open Proposal Call available to non-profit community groups located within the City of Toronto that meet the City's criteria for grant recipients.
Prior to amalgamation, municipal funding for homeless services has come primarily from the former City of Toronto's Homeless Initiatives Fund, and the former Metro Community Services Department (Hostel Services, Community Resource and Emergency Support Funds). The intent of the PHIF is to expand the City's response to homelessness across the new City by funding a broad range of new initiatives that have a measurable impact on preventing homelessness, helping people access emergency shelters or moving them from the hostels into more permanent forms of accommodation, thus freeing up needed space within the shelter system. The PHIF is not intended to replace funding for existing services, or to duplicate funding from any other program.
GENERAL PROGRAM CRITERIA:
The PHIF will be used to support new initiatives that best serve the needs of homeless people or people who are at risk of losing their housing. This includes people who are at risk of becoming homeless because they live in unsafe or unaffordable housing, people who have recently found themselves homeless due to economic circumstances or other reasons, people who are living on the streets, in parks or ravines, or in emergency shelters. This includes youth, adults, seniors, single people and families.
The intent of the PHIF is to fund projects that will assist people in finding solutions to the problems that they face finding or maintaining housing or in some cases accessing shelters. It is also expected that these projects will have a measurable impact on other related municipal services to homeless people. For example, helping someone maintain their tenancy may keep that person out of the shelter system. Assisting families in hostels access and maintain more permanent forms of accommodation frees up much needed space within the shelter system. PHIF projects, therefore, will help people develop longer term solutions which, in turn, will help improve the overall efficiency of services to homeless people in Toronto.
The City is particularly interested in identifying issues and working closely with PHIF project staff to develop strategies that will result in long term solutions. For example, homelessness in suburban sectors of the City may manifest itself very differently than in the downtown core. People may not literally be "on the streets" but hidden in unsafe or precarious forms of housing. Because the problem is hidden it is difficult to address. In addition, the emergency shelter system is at capacity. A recent study indicated that 17% of hostel users are chronically homeless and use 46% of shelter system's resources. Developing ways to find more permanent forms of housing for chronic hostel users will not only result in a better quality of life for these people but will free up needed shelter beds and help the system become more effective. Learning how to reach those in need and develop successful responses is a key objective of the PHIF.
Priority will also be given to proposals which utilize the skills of people who have experienced homelessness or have witnessed, first hand, some of the problems that this proposal call seeks to address. Our evaluations show that effective projects hire or include "peers" in the provision of services. This is a particularly effective strategy because people who have experienced homelessness understand its full physical, emotional, and psychological toll.
Successful proposals will also explain how data or information on services provided will be collected. Quantitative data required by the province would include, for example, # of people served, # of instances of intervention, # of evictions prevented, etc. The City is also interested in the quality of the service provided, what interventions work and which don't, emerging issues, how collaboration between agencies or services can result in more efficient service delivery, etc.
The City will be conducting a formal evaluation of the PHIF in order to ensure that the program is effective in reaching its objectives. Groups that are funded through this proposal call will be asked to participate in this evaluation.
In summary, a successful project proposal will:
PROJECT PRIORITIES:
After consultations with community groups that work with homeless people, 8 specific project areas within the three general program outcome areas established by the province have been targeted for funding. They are as follows: (Please see Appendix "A" for a detailed outline of each target area)
PREVENTION OF HOMELESSNESS
Funding is available for 6 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. Proposals will be for projects that prevent evictions by helping people who are at risk of losing their housing maintain their housing and by helping homeless people find and keep appropriate housing. Priority will be given to projects which address unmet needs or are located in areas of the City where few services exist.
2)Crisis Support for Vulnerable Tenants and Landlords ($100,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for direct support services for vulnerable tenants (including rooming house tenants and those in other housing settings) and landlords.
MOVING PEOPLE FROM THE STREETS TO EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION
3)Initiatives for Homeless Aboriginal People ($100,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for initiatives to work with small groups of homeless aboriginal peoples to help them identify and address their housing needs and to develop self help and mutual support among the group.
Funding is available for 1 project with a maximum of $50,000. This request for proposals is to assist low income immigrants and refugees who are not familiar with housing and social services in Canada and are not eligible for federally sponsored settlement programs.
Community/Business Homeless Initiatives ($50,000)
A maximum of $50,000 is available in this category to fund one larger project or a number of smaller projects. This request for proposals is for community groups to work with local businesses to develop innovative responses to homelessness. Projects could include outreach and/or communications components, or special projects that help homeless people find or maintain shelter.
MOVING PEOPLE FROM EMERGENCY TO PERMANENT ACCOMMODATION
1)Housing for Chronic Hostel Users ($100,000)
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for strategies which will result in placing chronic hostel users in permanent housing. Target groups could include single people, families living in the "motel strip", or specific groups of vulnerable people such as seniors with addiction and mental health problems.
Funding is available for 3 projects to a maximum of $25,000 per project. This request for proposals is for community economic development initiatives for homeless people.
8)Innovations for People Experiencing Homelessness ($50,000)
Funding is available for up to 10 projects with a maximum of $5,000 per project. This request for proposals is for innovative community projects initiated by and involving homeless people. The intent of these projects is to utilize the skills, imagination and ideas of homeless people to develop small scale projects that will be of benefit to their peers, their neighbourhood, or the greater community.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
Non-profit agencies located in the City of Toronto are eligible to apply subject to the specific criteria outlined in the project priorities. Applicants must be able to meet the City of Toronto requirements for grant recipients. Please note that as project funding is limited, not all project submissions will receive funding. In order to create efficiencies and avoid duplication of funding, information supplied in your proposal may be shared with other funders.
TIME LINES:
Proposals are due by 4:30 PM, Friday, January 8, 1999. LATE PROPOSALS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS:
Written proposals will be evaluated by a selection team. An interview with applicants may be requested. The selection team will review proposals taking into consideration the following:
Please note that projects recommended for funding will be subject to the approval of the Commissioner of Community and Neighbourhood Services.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS:
Successful applicants will be asked to submit a written interim report by May 31, 1999 and a final written report by November 30, 1999. The report should include data collected during the operation of the project. Project groups will be asked to present verbal progress reports to the Alternative Housing and Services Committee at the midway point of the project and to participate in a formal evaluation of the program. In addition, where appropriate, project staff may be asked to participate in focus groups that identify common problems, create efficiencies, and share successful strategies.
CONTACT FOR THE CITY OF TORONTO
Simon Liston, Co-ordinator, Homeless Initiatives
Community and Neighbourhood Services Department
Shelter, Housing and Support Division
277 Victoria Street, 11th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W2
Telephone: 392-0602Fax: 392-0560 e.mail: sliston@city.toronto.on.ca
Send completed applications to the above address.
Appendix "A"
Detailed Outline of Project Priorities
This Proposal Call has two goals: to ensure that projects that help prevent homelessness are available in all community council districts of the new City, and to identify and address problems which are not being dealt with by existing community services. This proposal call is targeted geographically - one project for each of the 6 community council districts in Toronto (i.e. Scarborough, East York, Toronto, North York, York, and Etobicoke)
Funding is available for 6 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. Proposals will be for projects that prevent evictions by helping people who are at risk of losing their housing maintain their tenancies and by helping homeless people find and keep appropriate housing.
The number of low income individuals and families who seek support for housing search, housing referrals and landlord/tenant advocacy is increasing. A 7% average rent increase in Toronto since last year means that affordability problems continue in a growing proportion of the tenant population; eviction rates continue to rise; and, a vacancy rate of less than 1% means that suitable, affordable housing is scarce and landlords can be more selective in who they chose to house.
The people who are particularly vulnerable include low income households, people who are homeless, families with children, especially single mothers, youth, and people who have language, age, physical or mental health barriers. Significant gains have been made when direct interventions by skilled housing workers are available for the individuals struggling with the current housing market conditions.
In recent years these interventions have included:
Project proposals must be new initiatives but will build on the existing capacities in communities to help people, including families, find and maintain their housing. Target groups, direct interventions offered and services provided may differ among projects funded. The examples of interventions sited above should be expanded with creative, new approaches whenever possible. However, the connections between organizational expertise, community needs, target group and service delivery must be direct and clear.
Measures of success should demonstrate that individuals and/or families have been helped to:
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for direct support services for vulnerable tenants (including rooming house tenants and those in other housing settings) and landlords.
Crisis support for vulnerable tenants and landlords may be required in any of the following instances:
Crisis support is meant to improve the overall living circumstances of a group of tenants rather than working with a specific individual or family around meeting their need for accommodation. Crisis support for vulnerable tenants and landlords requires:
Initiatives that provide effective mediation between landlord and tenant, landlord and regulatory bodies, and landlord and support agencies will be considered.
Success will be measured in terms of whether situations were resolved to the mutual benefit of vulnerable tenants and landlords including:
This proposal call is targeted to agencies run by and serving First Nations peoples.
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for initiatives to work with small groups of homeless aboriginal peoples to help them identify and address their housing needs and to develop self help and mutual support among the group.
There is a disproportionate number of Aboriginal persons experiencing homelessness in Toronto. The complexity of their personal, cultural and community issues require distinct responses. The most socially isolated of these individuals have many layers of issues that must be sensitively overcome before they are able to seek stability through housing and supports. Several aboriginal based agencies have patiently, over many years, performed small miracles in assisting homeless persons to a point where housing, particularly community forms of housing, is now a relevant and appropriate response.
The goal of these projects is to work with homeless aboriginal persons that are ready to leave the streets. Understandably, this readiness is only the start of a process of long term settlement which includes: defining their housing needs, seeking out appropriate housing options or creating alternative forms of community housing.
It is recognized that this is ground breaking work. Some strategies will be very effective while others will not be. One of the most important outcomes is to document:
Funding is available for 1 project with a maximum of $50,000. This request for proposals is to assist low income immigrants and refugees who are not familiar with housing and social services in Canada and are not eligible for federally sponsored settlement programs.
Many immigrants and refugees arrive in Toronto with few resources or material possessions and little knowledge of community services, housing, or other community supports. In addition some immigrants and refugees arrive from war torn countries and may be suffering from a post-traumatic experience. They face many barriers to successful settlement and are often thrust into a new milieu with a culture and language that they are unfamiliar with.
Without strategic interventions, many refugees may become homeless. Homelessness may take many forms including repeated shelter use, or life in a series of precarious housing conditions. This form of homelessness may not be so noticeable as a life "on the streets" and is often hidden from view.
The intent of the project is to develop and provide appropriate information, link people to services, and provide strategic interventions where necessary. It is recognized that the scope of the problem is large. The successful applicant will identify the areas where strategic interventions are the most needed and will be most successful. Partnership with other community agencies is encouraged.
It is expected that project staff will work with the City's Refugee Housing Task Group to co-ordinate the project's activities with other community services.
Measures of success should demonstrate that new Canadians have been helped to:
A maximum of $50,000 is available in this category to fund one larger project or a number of smaller projects. This request for proposals is for community groups to work with local businesses to develop innovative responses to homelessness. Projects could include outreach and/or communications components, or special projects that help homeless people find or maintain shelter.
Efforts have been made by community agencies, businesses and faith groups to make connections with each other by sharing information about the causes of homelessness, local services and job opportunities for homeless people, and how to help people avoid and escape homelessness.
There are several examples of the involvement of the larger community in the homeless issue; some initiatives have been voluntary and some initiatives have received project funding. Community members in the St. Lawrence neighbourhood recently launched the "Toronto Dollar" initiative and have signed up over 50 businesses who will accept this as currency at their stores. 10% of the "Toronto Dollar" is donated to projects which benefit homeless people. The Bloor Yorkville Business Association produced a flyer to inform local retailers and restaurants about the location of nearby shelters, churches, and food programs which homeless people can use. The Caring Alliance, a volunteer organization of faith groups and community services have developed a guide to services for homeless families, and developed a program of "adopting" motels.
These projects, and a few others with similar objectives, have served to increase public understanding of homelessness, provide opportunities for more positive interactions among people sharing public spaces, and have benefited homeless people themselves.
A pilot project conducted by Community Information Toronto in 1997 yielded some very interesting findings. The Street HELPLine Business Outreach project ran for three months in the Queen West/Bathurst community. Local businesses were asked about their interaction with homeless people who have a visible presence in the community. The report from the Business Outreach project concludes that it is useful to gain a better understanding of the issues of concern among local business, and their attitudes about homeless people. Half of the seventy small businesses responding to the survey felt positively about helping homeless people.
Owners, shopkeepers and employees in small businesses wanted to learn more about the social services agencies operating locally in order to be able to make suggestions when they found someone who appeared to be homelessness and in need of help. Fifty per cent of businesses said they would try or be willing to refer people to services.
Sixty per cent of those surveyed believed that homelessness in the community was not affecting business; a finding which was considered surprising as it was contrary to the prevailing belief that small businesses are angry about the impact of homelessness in their areas. Twenty five per cent felt that homelessness people nearby could scare customers. They asked for information about how to handle difficult situations and alternatives to police involvement.
A conclusion of the Street HELPLine project was that "the more everyone in the community gets to know each other, the more tension can be diffused or avoided, and the more people can work together to everyone's benefit."
Project proposals must be new initiatives from non-profit agencies proposing to operate the project in active partnership with local businesses, landlords, schools and other local institutions, and/or faith groups. A variety of projects will be considered.
Specific Outcomes
Funding is available for 2 projects with a maximum of $50,000 per project. This request for proposals is for strategies which will result in placing chronic hostel users in permanent housing. These strategies will have the added benefit of freeing up needed hostel beds for other people. Target groups could include one of the following:
These target groups are highly represented in the hostel population and have specific difficulties with respect to accessing and maintaining affordable accommodation. Key issues to be determined include:
Successful outcomes would include:
Funding is available for 3 projects to a maximum of $25,000 per project. This request for proposals is for community economic development initiatives for homeless people. Homeless people who are unemployed or underemployed will benefit from initiatives which allow them to develop new skills, engage in new work experience opportunities, or receive entrepreneurial assistance.
There have been a number of successful community economic development initiatives in Toronto for people who have experienced homeless. Examples include: a courier service that uses the transit system for deliveries, a cleaning company that provides janitorial services to companies and community agencies, crafts production initiatives, and woodworking co-operatives. These initiatives provide a range of training and employment opportunities that, although not focusing on full-time employment goals, provide work opportunities with flexible terms and conditions that have proven to be important in skills development, improvement of self-esteem, well being and stabilization.
Project proposals must be new initiatives but will build on capacities within community agencies that work with homeless people. A range of initiatives will be considered including proposals for group projects and individual entrepreneurial assistance. It is recognized that community economic development initiatives grow incrementally. The intent of this proposal call is to identify projects that are sustainable over the long term. PHIF funding should be considered as "seed" or start-up funding. Proposals should include a description of how funding can be diversified over the longer term.
Measures of success should demonstrate that participants in the CED project have been helped to:
8)Innovations for People Experiencing Homelessness ($50,000)
Funding is available for up to 10 projects with a maximum of $5,000 per project. This request for proposals is for innovative community projects initiated by and/or involving homeless people. The intent of these projects is to utilize the skills, imagination and ideas of homeless people to develop small scale projects that will be of benefit to their peers, their neighbourhood, or the greater community.
A wide variety of project proposals will be considered and could include capital and/or operating requests. Project proposals should address one or more of three provincial "outcomes" as outlined earlier in the Request for Proposals. A wide range of projects will be considered including food and nutrition initiatives, community improvement activities, arts initiatives etc.
Measures of success should demonstrate that people who have experienced homelessness have:
Cparticipated in initiating the project
Appendix "B"
APPLICATION FORMAT
Please provide 4 copies of the following information typed in this format. Attach supporting documentation as noted. Please make sure that you answer all of the following questions. If you are applying for the Innovations for People Experiencing Homelessness category answer questions 1 to 3.3 only.
Proposals are due by 4:30 PM, Friday, January 8, 1999. LATE PROPOSALS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
1.1 Legal name of Sponsoring Organization:
1.2Address:
1.3Contact Person:
1.4Phone Number:
Fax Number:
e mail:
INFORMATION ON SPONSORING ORGANIZATION
2.1In what Community Council district (e.g. Etobicoke, York etc.) are you located:
2.2Which City of Toronto ward(s) do you serve:
2.3Types of services your organization provides:
2.4Attach the following:
3.1Project Outline
Which of the following Project Priorities are you applying for (Check one):
__1) Housing Help: Special Projects
__ 2) Crisis Support for Vulnerable Tenants and Landlords
__ 3) Initiatives for Homeless Aboriginal People
__ 4) Access to Settlement Services and Housing for New Canadians
__ 5) Community/Business Initiatives
__ 6) Housing for Chronic Hostel Users
__ 7) Skills Development Initiatives
__ 8) Innovations for People Experiencing Homelessness
Provide a one paragraph description of the proposed project.
How does the project meet one or more of three provincial "outcomes" (i..e. homelessness prevention, moving people from the streets to shelter or from shelter to more permanent forms of accommodation)
3.2Target Population
Describe why the project is needed and who will benefit from it.
3.3Organization and Project Management
Describe the services you intend to offer and how staffing, management and administration will support these services. Please attach an organizational chart of the project, if applicable.
Describe the role that people who have experienced homelessness will play in the project.
Provide a timetable and work plan. Where possible describe specific results for activities in the work plan.
Provide a complete project budget including (if applicable) staff salaries and benefits, honoraria, administrative expenses, materials and supplies, other expenses. Please note any other source of funds for the project.
3.4Experience and Partnerships
State your organization's experience in delivering similar or related projects.
List any other community organizations or other groups that will be involved in the development or implementation of the project. Describe the roles of these other groups. (Please attach supporting documentation from each of these organizations or groups).
3.5Evaluation and Data Collection
Describe what data will be collected and how you plan to collect it. Are there any particular issues that you foresee in collecting this data?
Describe how the project will be evaluated and the criteria that will be used.
City of Toronto Provincial Homelessness Initiatives Fund
Interim Report Format
Please provide the following information no later than Monday, May 31, 1999.
1.General Project Information
1.2Sponsoring Organization:
1.3Contact Name/Title:
Phone/Fax/e.mail:
1.4Did you hire new staff or did existing staff undertake the project? List the names of staff who were involved in the project and their roles.
1.5Provide one paragraph which states the objectives of your project:
2.Project specifics for 1998/99
(Please provide an updated Work Plan for the project)
2.1When did the project start/finish?
2.2Please note the number of hours the service provided per week and the location of services.
2.3How do potential clients find out about your project?
2.4Describe any new partnerships, funding and/or in-kind resources used which were not part of your original proposal.
2.5Describe how homeless people are involved in the planning, delivery or evaluation of your project.
3.Who uses your project
3.1Service Targets: How many people do you anticipate working with on a daily/weekly/monthly basis? (Pick the appropriate period) What kinds of activities will take place with each client? If appropriate to your project, estimate the amount of time you will spend with each client.
3.2How does your preliminary experience compare with your initial service target estimates?
3.3Please estimate who uses your service by:
Gender: ___ % Male ___ % Female
Age group:
___ % Under 16___ % 17 - 25
___ % 26 - 64___ % Over 65
Family status:___ % Single___ % Families
3.4Describe the people who are best served by the services you offer.
3.5Who cannot utilize your services because of their needs or the limitations of your project?
4.Key issues and service gaps
4.1Based on your preliminary experience with the project briefly describe the key issues and any gaps in services that have been identified.
4.2What part of the service is working and what isn't?
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