Timmins, ON – The Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB) is proud to announce its successful application to the Homelessness Reduction Innovation Fund, receiving $549,180 in one-time funding to launch the Rapid Re-Housing (RRH) Initiative pilot project in the Cochrane District.
Over the next year, the RRH Initiative will provide early intervention for those who have experienced homelessness for three months or less. Through this pilot program, participants can access short-term rental assistance (up to six months) and flexible funding to support move-in costs. A team of two dedicated Housing Case Managers will provide direct case management, support case conferencing and provide targeted outreach to quickly connect with those newly experiencing homelessness.
“This pilot project is a testament to the Cochrane District Services Board’s commitment to evidence-based solutions and collaboration,” shares Christine Heavens, Director of Community Development and Services at the Cochrane District Services Board. “This project aims to increase monthly move-ins for those newly experiencing homelessness and reduce the number of people becoming chronically homelessness in the Cochrane District.”
“The Rapid Re-Housing Initiative strengthens our district’s coordinated access system, ensuring that people have access to the right supports at the right time,” explains Natalie Hallok, Lead Manager of Homelessness Initiatives and Support Services at the Cochrane District Services Board. “Preventing and ending homelessness requires a multi-prong approach that goes beyond immediate crisis response. This investment in upstream solutions and early interventions marks an important investment for the Cochrane District.”
The RRH Initiative directly aligns with CDSB’s Housing Plan, Opening Doors in the Cochrane District: A Plan for Housing Stability 2025-2030 and recommendations from the Everyone Counts: Cochrane District 2024 Enumeration Report. By leveraging proactive outreach, dynamic prioritization, and streamlined triage, CDSB is committed to efforts that help prevent chronic homelessness and improving housing stability for Cochrane District residents.
As of August 31st, 2025, a total of 488 individuals were experiencing homelessness in the Cochrane District, with 33 (7%) being newly identified. Since 2022, 1,940 unique individuals have experienced homelessness in the Cochrane District, with 10% being youth aged 16-24.
Communities in Northern Ontario face distinct challenges—including geographic isolation, limited housing stock, and harsh climate conditions—that require innovative and locally tailored solutions. Addressing homelessness in the North demands strong partnerships, shared expertise, and a commitment to evidence-based decision making. Through collaboration with local service providers, Indigenous partners, and all levels of government, the Cochrane District Services Board is dedicated to building a more resilient and inclusive region where everyone has access to safe, stable housing.
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About the Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB)
The Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB) is a regional leader in delivering essential social and emergency services across Northeastern Ontario. Serving a diverse and expansive region, CDSB provides integrated programs in paramedic services, housing, children’s services, and community development and services.
With a strong focus on community partnerships and equity, CDSB is committed to supporting the well-being of all residents—including Indigenous, Francophone, and other equity-deserving populations. Through innovation, collaboration, and a deep understanding of District needs, CDSB works to ensure accessible, high-quality services that build stronger, healthier communities.
For more information, please contact:
Kaileigh Russell
Communications Manager, Cochrane District Services Board
kaileigh.russell@cdsb.care
(O) 705-268-7722 Ext. 244
(C) 705-406-9286
