Collaborative Funding Partnership Restores Vital Street Outreach Program in Thunder Bay
The return of the SOS (Street Outreach Services) Program marks an important step forward in supporting individuals experiencing homelessness in Thunder Bay. Relaunched as of June 30, 2025, the program is the result of a collaborative effort between the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre (TBIFC), the Lakehead Social Planning Council (LSPC), and the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB), with each organization contributing essential funding and support.
The SOS Program plays a critical role in helping individuals who are unsheltered connect with the services they need. Operating as a mobile response unit, SOS offers transportation to emergency shelters, community-based programs, and withdrawal-management services. It also provides on-the-spot outreach and essential supplies—such as food and warm clothing—for individuals sleeping rough, and works to build trust and relationships that can lead to long-term housing solutions.
This renewed partnership demonstrates the power of coordinated action. TBIFC and LSPC each contributed Reaching Home federal homelessness funding toward the program, ensuring that Indigenous-led and community-based priorities were central to its delivery. At the same time, TBDSSAB is providing $75,000 in annual operating funding through the provincially funded Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP), which supports a wide range of housing and homelessness services across the region.
Together, these organizations are ensuring that the SOS Program is not only operational, but responsive to the unique and complex needs of people experiencing homelessness in Thunder Bay. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to safety, dignity, and connection—helping individuals move from crisis toward stability and wellness.
