Guelph is thriving, thanks in part to the infusion of millions of dollars from federal government programs and investments. Strategies to reduce pollution, deliver income supports, and build more housing helping to shape the city’s future. Member of Parliament for Guelph, Lloyd Longfield says, “These initiatives are making a real difference in the lives of not only the most vulnerable in the city, but for everyone. The investments are about building a stronger, more compassionate Guelph.”
People, Planet and Profit
MP Longfield has been consistently championing the Triple Bottom Line approach of People, Planet, and Profit.
He recognizes that strong communities are built through individual supports, sustainable economic growth, and environmental stewardship. He says, “You can’t succeed in one area exclusively; you must succeed in all areas to build a future for yourself and your community. We are creating a climate where people can meet the challenges they face while also giving them a pathway to success.”
Canada Carbon Rebate
The Canada Carbon Rebate is a tax-free payment, paid out quarterly that helps households and businesses offset the cost of federal pollution pricing. In 2024, 80,540 residents of Guelph received the rebate, with a collective value exceeding $48 million.
MP Longfield says, “The Canada Carbon Rebate can be a powerful boost to household budgets. By encouraging energy efficiency and rewarding sustainable choices, the more money individuals have to spend in the local economy.”
Canada Child Benefit
The Canada Child Benefit is a lifeline for eligible families raising children under the age of 18. The monthly payment provides crucial support to help families cover the essentials. Last year in Guelph, 25,430 children received the Canada Child Benefit. MP Longfield points out, “Collectively, that is $101 million coming into Guelph to help people raising children. It’s money that will be invested in clothes, extra curricular activities, and better resources. It’s money that is spent in our local economy.”
Across Canada, the Canada Child Benefit has lifted about 600,000 out of poverty. MP Longfield adds, “The Conservatives voted against the Canada Child Benefit several times. They want to eliminate programs.”
Canadian Dental Care Plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan makes dental care more affordable and accessible for eligible Canadian residents who have a household income of less than $90,000 a year.
In Guelph, 7,556 residents will no longer be postponing checkups or treatment due to cost because they have been approved for the dental care program. MP Longfield says, “This plan ensures preventive care and early intervention, reducing the risk of costly complications down the road or visits to already overwhelmed emergency departments.”
Canada Summer Jobs Program
Last year, in Guelph, 282 youths were employed through the Canada Summer Jobs Program. The program gives youth valuable work experience to build their resumes while supporting summer camps and not-for-profit organizations. It’s a perfect blend of growth, experience, and community support.
Housing and Homelessness
MP Lloyd Longfield has been relentless in advocating for investments in housing and it has been a cornerstone issue throughout his 10 years in office, whether it’s supportive housing, affordable units for families and seniors or private development to meet the growing demand for homes. He says, “By combining our efforts, we’ve turned ideas into action, most recently creating three transformative housing projects within a year in the City of Guelph.”
- 10 Shelldale is a permanent 32-unit supportive housing project supported by $2.5 million in federal funds.
- With a $6.4 million investment from the federal government, Stepping Stone converted an old motel into a 28-unit, rapid housing project creating Grace Gardens, as well as adding shelter beds to 23 Gordon Street to assist people who are homeless.
- Wyndham House provides homeless youth with housing, education, and social supports. The federal government provided funding to create 10 supportive housing beds.
MP Longfield says, “The vision of the Liberal government continues to be, how do we provide the supports that are needed for people at different stages of their lives, including the homeless. We are working to support individuals so they can move from living on the street to living with a roof over their heads.”
The Housing Accelerator Fund tackles red tape and barriers to homebuilding by incentivizing municipalities to cut through bureaucratic bottlenecks. MP Longfield says, “In 2024, the City of Guelph received more than $21 million to help fast-track the building of nearly 750 additional housing units over the next three years.” The agreement will accelerate housing growth in the short-term and help Guelph meet its pledge of building 18,000 homes by 2031.
MP Longfield is pleased with the progress. Ten of twelve projects have been approved, including the $36 million Silver Maple Seniors Community by St. Joseph’s Housing Corporation for 115 rental apartments and townhomes designed specifically for seniors. MP Longfield says, “Our government’s housing strategy is a foundation for stability and opportunity for residents of Guelph. Whether it’s a shelter, supportive or affordable housing, long-term care beds, or a home for families, we’re working to provide housing for individuals where they are at in life to ensure that no one is left behind.”
MP Lloyd Longfield believes Guelph is a shining example of how targeted federal funding can drive meaningful change. He says, “Every dollar invested in Guelph is a family getting a safe place to call home, parents able to provide for their children, students building a resume, seniors accessing needed dental care, and businesses benefitting from the investments.”
Rewarding Career
Reflecting on a decade of dedicated service, MP Longfield’s work has touched lives in tangible and deeply personal ways. He says, “Seeing the joy on a senior’s face when she learned that her CPP back payments would ensure that she could stay in her home or receiving words of thanks and notes of gratitude from individuals that we have assisted over the years has been profoundly rewarding. It makes the job worthwhile when you see the positive impact our programs and assistance have made in individuals’ lives.”
Contact MP Lloyd Longfield at (519) 837-8276 or via email: [email protected]. Visit his website here.