| This thesis explores the neo-liberalization of social housing in York Region, Ontario, looking specifically at changes that have occurred directly from the province downloading responsibility for the program to the municipality in 1998. I used a mixed-methods approach, including interviews with ten non-profit providers, and found that the supply of social housing in York Region remained static since 1998, while demand increased. In addition, social housing landlords must now conform to stricter operating and reporting regulations. Interviewed non-profit housing providers reported greater administrative responsibilities and the requirement to house tenants requiring specialized social services, without receiving necessary increases in operational funding. As a result, many interviewees felt that they had less time for the 'social' aspect of running a social housing development. Interviewees felt the province had retained control over the direction of social housing in York Region, but downloaded the costs to municipalities and non-profit organizations. |
