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Health Equity

Social Determinants Of Health

Housing

...of Simcoe Muskoka renters spend more than 30% of household income on shelter costs (i.e. rent, electricity, heat and municipal services).

As of December 31, 2016, Simcoe County reported having 2,979 households on their wait list for social housing. In the District of Muskoka, there were just over 600 households.

People who are not able to afford safe and secure housing are at more risk for health problems. Unsafe housing can cause an increase in illness and premature death from infection, heart disease, asthma, and mental illness, as well as fatal injuries. The high cost of housing can also limit the amount of money people have left over for food, childcare and transportation.

What can be done?

You can: Volunteer at a local shelter, meet a homeless family and see first-hand the harm poverty is causing parents and children.

Governments can:

Promote, provide and protect a range of affordable housing options by having a plan that outlines how all levels of government and community partners will work together.
Increase access to safe, good quality housing and prioritize families experiencing high rates of poverty, including Indigenous people, female lone-parent families, and women and children fleeing violence.

Resources:

Impact of Housing on Health in Simcoe Muskoka

County of Simcoe 10 Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Plan

Muskoka 10 Year Housing and Homelessness Plan

Simcoe County Report Card on Homelessness

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