Finding suitable, affordable housing is becoming an increasingly uphill battle for residents across rural Ontario, bringing significant mental health challenges for those experiencing homelessness.
The Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health in Goderich is launching a virtual webinar event to address these intersecting crises. The free public program takes place via Zoom on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, running from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.. Titled “Housing and Homelessness in Huron County: Plans and Progress,” the presentation will examine the distinct obstacles to managing housing shortages in rural communities alongside the critical need for accessible mental health support.
Local leadership will outline current initiatives while mapping out strategies to combat housing instability at the individual, municipal, and regional levels. The webinar is expected to highlight how collaborative efforts can drive meaningful change, emphasizing that cross-sector cooperation is essential to solving complex social issues.
The virtual discussion features a panel of key health and community leaders from across the region. Speakers include Lynn Higgs, Chief Nursing Executive and Vice President of Clinical Services with the Huron Health System, which serves both Alexandra Marine and General Hospital and South Huron Hospital. Joining her is Ryan Erb, Executive Director of Perth-Huron United Way, who brings over 25 years of experience in non-profit management, community development, and fundraising. Rounding out the panel is Erin Schooley, who has served as the Homelessness Programs Supervisor for Huron County for over nine years and possesses a background in Emergency Management with the Canadian Red Cross.
The session is free and open to all interested community members. Those wishing to attend can register online through the event's Zoom registration page.
For more information, the Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 519-612-1053.
