Page 7 - City of London Takes On Veteran Homelessness
P. 7
overarching homelessness crisis. “If we can do that London has the second fastest growing economy in
for our veterans, we can do that for other at-risk Canada before COVID, and in the last seven months
communities in London, which is why I have made it has had more continuous employment growth than
my objective over the next five years to move toward any other city in the country. “That's a testament
functional homelessness—zero on all fronts,” says to the confidence I believe that business has in
Mayor Holder. “Because this program highlights that our community,” he says. “I've always said that no
there are other groups that need equal attention.” municipality can do this alone without great support
from senior levels of government and community
Having reached functional zero, the City of London and that is something the City of London has.”
has its sights set on absolute zero. “Having an
address is the first step towards accessing services Setting an example for the rest of the country,
or gaining employment,” continues Mayor Holder. Mayor Holder says the City of London has shown
“You can have a bank account if you have an that addressing veteran homelessness can be
address, for instance. There're so many things that done. “I love this city. I love this city because it has
go into having a home.” passion and compassion.”
Mayor Holder recognizes the importance of the www.london.ca
economic drivers it takes to make London so strong.
6 7