Prevention and Diversion

Prevention & Diversion assistance is distributed by the John Howard Society of PEI and is accessible to individuals and/or families who face the imminent threat of homelessness unless they receive help.

This program primarily assists individuals over the age of 18 who are facing temporary and unexpected situations. Those with more complex needs who require longer-term solutions should be referred for Case Management in our Wrap Around Housing Program.
The Prevention and Diversion Program works to ensure equitable access to funding and support for all individuals and families who can demonstrate their need.
In essence, it is a brief service with a focus on financial support

Degrees of Stability in Housing & Appropriate Interventions

Degree of Housing Stability Appropriate Intervention Specific Services That May Be Provided General Services/Referrals Provided (In All Interventions)
At-Risk of Housing Loss Prevention -Mediation -Rent Arrears Assistance -Hydro Disconnection Assistance Information/Referral Connection to Services and/or Benefits Short-Term Support Coordination
At-Risk of Housing Loss OR Experiencing Homelessness AND Requesting Shelter Diversion -Those listed above and -Housing Search -Moving Support -Support to Establish Housing Information/Referral Connection to Services and/or Benefits Short-Term Support Coordination

Taken from “What is Diversion? An Overview of Emergency Shelter Diversion as a Practice and the Local Context in Waterloo Region”

What type of areas are covered within the Program?

  • Rent Arrears
  • Security deposits
  • Hydro bills which are at the point of disconnection
  • Moving costs within the Province

What other things can I receive from the Program?

  • Referrals to other resources
  • Engagement with landlords by the Case Worker
  • One-on-one support from a Case Worker
  • Guidance on strategies to maintain housing

What types of things are generally not covered within the Program?

  • Food and groceries
  • Gas for vehicles
  • Car repairs
  • Fines
  • Transport and travel
  • Internet
  • Phones
  • Heating oil
  • Clothing
  • Medications and other health expenses
  • Mortgage arrears

Program Eligibility

Prevention and Diversion Services are available to individuals who are: Adults (18+), Low-income earners, At imminent risk of eviction or homelessness and Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents living on PEI

Apply or refer a client for Prevention and Diversion Services using the link below!

Apply now

Service Contact

Alice Vanderzwaag

Caseworker | Ext: 103

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