The County of Simcoe is establishing a new Temporary Reception Centre in Bradford West Gwillimbury that will provide short-term housing and support services for asylum claimants as they begin their lives in Canada.
The County announced it has purchased the former LOFT Community Services property at 136 Barrie Street, with the majority of the acquisition funded through the federal government's Interim Housing Assistance Program (IHAP). Approximately $2.86 million of the purchase cost was covered through the program.
The facility will offer temporary accommodation and settlement services for up to 54 individuals at a time, with stays capped at 90 days. The centre's goal is to help individuals and families secure long-term housing, find employment opportunities and connect with local community supports.
The County says the project is being developed in partnership with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, while COSTI Immigrant Services and the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka will help operate the site and provide support services.
"Strong partnerships between governments, municipalities and service providers are essential to respond to the diverse housing needs across our country," said The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
"Working closely with the County of Simcoe, we're investing in temporary, sustainable housing, and settlement services that will help vulnerable people establish themselves, gain independence and begin contributing to their community. We thank the County of Simcoe, COSTI Immigrant Services and the YMCA of Simcoe-Muskoka for their leadership in establishing and operating this new reception centre."
County Warden Basil Clarke said the new facility reflects the County's commitment to supporting vulnerable residents while strengthening local communities.
"By providing short-term accommodation and essential services, we are helping people take the first steps toward stability and independence."
The County's total IHAP funding allocation for 2025-2027 is approximately $4.4 million, with a dedicated reception facility identified as a key objective of the federal funding program.
An asylum claimant is a person seeking protection in Canada because they fear persecution in their home country. While claimants can work, study and access support services while their applications are processed, they do not receive federal income support during that period.
County officials say the reception centre is intended to provide newcomers with the resources they need to establish independence and successfully integrate into the community.
