The City of Mississauga is advocating for increased provincial funding for social services and supports, spurred by a recent report revealing significant underfunding in Peel Region. The city council passed a resolution urging the Ontario government to commit promptly to a fair distribution of funds, ensuring that Mississauga receives an equitable share of provincial investments in municipal and social services.
The City of Mississauga is advocating for increased provincial funding for social services and supports, spurred by a recent report revealing significant underfunding in Peel Region. The city council passed a resolution urging the Ontario government to commit promptly to a fair distribution of funds, ensuring that Mississauga receives an equitable share of provincial investments in municipal and social services.
The resolution was prompted by a report from Metamorphosis Network, representing over 100 nonprofits in Peel, which highlighted that Peel residents receive significantly less provincial funding—over $850 million annually—compared to other regions for community and social services such as housing and childcare. This disparity has long been a concern for Ward 11 Coun. Brad Butt, who emphasized that underfunding places an unfair burden on Mississauga taxpayers.
In response, Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services spokesperson Anastasiya Romanska stated the ministry’s commitment to enhancing the efficiency of social assistance programs through centralized delivery and digital initiatives. Meanwhile, Ministry of Health spokesperson Hannah Jensen highlighted substantial provincial investments in home and community care services and wage increases for personal support workers.
Priyanka Sheth from Metamorphosis Network stressed the urgency for local MPPs, ministers, and the city to collaborate swiftly on a plan to increase investment in Peel Region, emphasizing the necessity for the Ontario government to prioritize equitable funding for local families.
Despite the council resolution lacking binding power over the provincial government, it reflects growing concern amplified by a Financial Accountability Office (FAO) report estimating a $3.7 billion shortfall in provincial spending commitments, particularly within the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.
In response to the FAO report, the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services defended their budget allocations, emphasizing substantial recent increases. However, community advocates and local leaders continue to press for immediate action to address the chronic underfunding affecting Mississauga and Peel Region as a whole.
1