Lambton County Council is unanimously asking the province to extend social services relief funding to the end of 2022.
Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley said while they're thankful for what has been received during the pandemic so far, more is needed to ensure individuals are properly transitioned into housing.
"The big concern is that if the provincial government doesn't step up and renew funding come September, this fall, we will have a real crisis on our hands," said Bradley.
The funds have been used to improve critical service delivery, protect homeless shelter staff and residents, renovate and buy shelter facilities, add to rent banks, create longer-term housing solutions and support plans to prepare for potential future outbreaks or emergencies.
"We're working very closely with all of these individuals," said Social Services General Manager Valerie Colasanti. "We have increased our number of community support workers who can provide intensive case management and we are seeing those numbers start to come down and at the same time with our diligent diversion process, we're taking less people into shelter and trying to keep them housed. So, I'm really hoping that we're able to reduce those numbers significantly by September."
But, she admits they will not be back to pre-COVID numbers by then.
"So, we will need to be looking for alternative situations and solutions for these individuals."
She said they'd have to consider diverting base funding into the shelter.
"Which really would be disappointing to the community I think, because without those prevention programs, the numbers will start to grow again."
The County of Lambton received nearly $2.3 million in March, to extend hotel and motel stays for residents in need of emergency shelter during the pandemic.
Almost $7 million has been received so far.
