City of Leduc dedicates additional resources to support vulnerable population

Two new staff, pilot program to reduce financial barriers, enhanced data collection

The City of Leduc will enhance its support for Leduc’s vulnerable population, starting this fall, adding to the diverse programs and services already provided to the community.  

The added services include:  

• Hiring a second Life Safety and Navigation Coordinator; full-time three-year contract, starting Dec. 1, 2024 
• Launching a pilot program to reduce start-up costs to housing (e.g. damage deposits, renters; insurance, etc.) and to maintain housing (e.g. eviction prevention) for those who cannot access traditional financial aid programs 
• Enhancing current data collection to support successful future planning regarding the unhoused  
• Coordinating regional political advocacy to create systemic change regionally and provincially  
• Hiring a second Community Safety Officer; full-time three-year contract, starting as soon as possible  
• Making the current Community Safety Officer a permanent position 
• Reviewing and formalizing activation procedures for the Extreme Weather Plan 

“It’s important that we continue to care for the vulnerable members of our community and provide a diverse, multi-faceted support system,” says City of Leduc Mayor Bob Young. “These service enhancements will help mitigate risks for the unhoused in Leduc, support access to pathways out of houselessness, and allow us to better support the community during times of extreme weather.” 

The service enhancements will cost $1.3 million and will be paid for over three years. A proposal will be submitted to the Government of Alberta to minimize the total financial impact on the City of Leduc.