A new housing and homelessness plan to address evolving needs in Oxford

Following Council approval, Oxford County is proud to share Housing for All, 2024-2033, a new housing and homelessness plan to guide decision-making over the next decade.

Widely informed by community feedback and a comprehensive housing needs assessment, the plan builds on the County's previous 10-Year Shelter Plan (2015) while considering changing market conditions, needs, and financial challenges. It offers five strategic directions to tackle critical needs: 

1. Reducing homelessness through prevention
2. Supporting housing stability through collaboration
3. Maintaining and improving the existing housing portfolio
4. Increasing affordable and rental housing options
5. Advocating for increased investment

In addition, the plan outlines more than 30 actions and progress measures to track the impact over the coming years.

The Housing for All plan covers the entire housing continuum—from emergency shelters to affordable homeownership—complementing the County's Official Plan and the Master Housing Strategy (2022) and aligning with the ongoing development of the Homelessness Response Strategy. It was shaped through extensive community engagement, beginning in the fall of 2023, including surveys with the community and municipal partners and focus groups with local agencies, health system partners, employment services, childcare providers, planners, developers, and First Nations communities.

Under the Housing Services Act, 2011, Service Managers like Oxford County are required to develop housing plans that address local needs while supporting provincial priorities. For more information or to review the plan, visit www.oxfordcounty.ca/publications.

Comment

Marcus Ryan, Warden, Oxford County

“Housing is a primary concern for Oxford County and our area municipalities; it is arguably one of the paramount issues this council will face. We are committed to moving forward aggressively with the Housing for All plan to reduce homelessness, increase affordable housing, and enhance housing stability in Oxford.”