Housing and Homelessness Plan Update 2026

About the Project

The District of Parry Sound is updating its Housing and Homelessness Plan. This Plan helps us understand what types of housing people need, what supports are working well, and where improvements are needed across the District.

The update will help us:

· Understand current and future housing needs

· Identify gaps in supports for people experiencing homelessness

· Strengthen partnerships between service providers, health, justice, and community agencies

· Plan for housing growth and better services over the next decade

We want the Plan to reflect the voices of residents, service providers, and people with lived experience.

Why it Matters?

Safe, stable housing is important for everyone. The District of Parry Sound faces unique challenges including limited rental options, higher housing costs, rural and remote distances, and seasonal pressures.

Updating the Plan will help us:

· Better understand housing needs across the District

· Identify local pressures related to homelessness prevention, emergency accommodations, and housing stability supports

· Strengthen how services, and communities, work together

· Improve the housing and homelessness system’s ability to meet the needs of local residents, today and over the next decade

Your input can help shape real improvements in how housing and services are delivered.

Get Involved

We want to hear from you! There are several opportunities to participate throughout the project:

1. Community Survey - COMING SOON!

Residents across the District are invited to share their experiences and perspectives on housing, affordability, and homelessness.

2. Stakeholder Focus Groups

Sector-specific discussions will be held with:

· Homelessness, health, and justice service providers

· Non-profit housing providers

· Private developers, landlords, and real estate agents

· Municipal leadership and planning staff

3. Engagement with People with Lived Experience

We will connect with individuals who have experienced homelessness or housing instability to better understand service needs and barriers.

4. Key Informant Interviews

Virtual or phone interviews will be conducted with DSSAB leadership and staff, municipal partners, Indigenous partners, and other key stakeholders.

5. Community Validation Workshop – (more information coming soon!)

A collaborative session will bring stakeholders together to review key findings, identify priorities, and help refine emerging strategies for the Plan.

Stay Connected

This page will be updated throughout the project with:

· Engagement opportunities

· Project updates

· Key findings and Draft reports

For questions or to request additional information, please contact:

Jodi Ball

Housing and Homelessness Plan, Engagement Lead

905-399-5634 jodi@jconsultinggroup.ca

Help Spread the Word

Your input is essential to building a stronger, more responsive housing system across the District. Please share this project with colleagues, neighbours, and community networks to ensure diverse voices are represented.

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