Bruce County Human Services Quarterly Update - Q2 2025

Bruce County Human Services is strengthening its commitment to building inclusive, resilient communities through targeted investments and strategic partnerships. 

In its Quarterly Update, the department highlighted key initiatives that are helping residents access essential supports, from child care and housing to financial assistance and community engagement programs. 

Bruce County engages in strategic initiatives to enhance community participation and support for families. 

• In Q2, $25,406 was flowed in Child Activity Assistance Program funds across the county, allowing 65 children to participate in activities.
• The Human Services department received 2,863 calls for support in Q2. Plus, the redesigned Human Services website allows for easier access to supports. 

Bruce County provides social assistance supports to help residents move toward sustainable employment and independence. 

• More residents are turning to Ontario Works for assistance.
• There has been a 16% increase in Ontario Works caseloads this year.
• In 2025, $331,720 has been provided to residents in need of stability supports for housing, food, and basic needs. 

Bruce County is helping children and families access quality care and early learning opportunities. 

• Demand for licensed child care in Bruce County continues to rise — up 17% this year.
• $7,973,601 in Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care funding was flowed to licensed child care operators in Bruce County to support child care affordability. 

Bruce County is working to reduce homelessness and support housing stability. 

• Bruce County has partnered with the YMCA and CMHA, to implement a transitional, supported housing model.
• A local priority policy ensures one in every ten offers of housing is made to an applicant currently experiencing homelessness and on the By-Name List.  The By-Name List is a real-time list of all people experiencing homelessness and using homelessness response services. The By-Name List and coordinated homelessness system is governed by the Grey-Bruce Homelessness Response Steering Committee.  

As our region continues to face rising living costs and growing pressures on families, Bruce County Human Services remains a vital pillar of support for our community.  

Through strategic investments and collaborative initiatives, the County is responding to these realities, helping residents to access the resources when they need them most.