“Winnipeg model” on homelessness touted

Ottawa is proposing the "Winnipeg model" for addressing homelessness across the country. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne revealed that conversations are underway with provincial finance ministers regarding this approach. The $5.77 per four-week subscription, which escalates to $19.95 after 52 weeks, is available to new and qualified returning subscribers.

This initiative is part of Budget 2026, which allocates $1 billion to tackle homelessness in Manitoba. A significant portion of this funding will support a Winnipeg-based center focused on mental health and addiction services. While Champagne did not specify which other provinces might adopt this model, he emphasized the involvement of the governments of Manitoba and Winnipeg, along with the philanthropic sector, in ending homelessness.

The federal government will provide infrastructure funding, while the Manitoba government will finance ongoing services. Champagne stressed that partnership is essential to guide individuals from homelessness to permanent housing. Currently, around 65,000 Canadians are experiencing homelessness, and the Liberal Party has set a goal to eradicate homelessness within the next decade.