Belleville’s Homeless Crisis: HUB Project in Limbo as Need Surges

Belleville, Ontario, is facing a growing homelessness crisis — one that reflects a broader emergency unfolding across many small communities in the province. As the number of people in need continues to climb, the city’s plans for a centralized, 24/7 support service known as The HUB have stalled, raising concerns about the future of local efforts to address homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges.

What Is the HUB and Where Does It Stand?

The HUB was designed to be a round-the-clock facility offering food, shelter, addiction recovery, mental health services, and case management all under one roof. It was created in partnership with local service providers to serve as a one-stop solution for individuals facing housing insecurity and complex health challenges.

But despite community support and significant municipal investment, the project’s future is now uncertain. A new budget proposal presented by the overseeing organization significantly exceeded earlier funding approvals. Without financial backing from upper levels of government to cover the increased costs, the city has paused its next steps.

As of May 2025, the HUB is not officially cancelled, but remains on hold. Mayor Neil Ellis has indicated the city is prepared to move forward independently if needed — potentially through a special tax levy or increased long-term debt — but acknowledges that without provincial funding, it's a challenging path forward.

How Many People Are Affected?

Homelessness is rising at an alarming rate across Ontario. According to the most recent statistics in 2024

Over 81,500 people experienced homelessness in the province last year — a 25% increase since 2022.

More than 50% of those individuals are considered chronically homeless.

Ontario municipalities spent approximately $2.1 billion on homelessness and housing programs in 2024 alone.

In Belleville, estimates from service providers and community outreach programs indicate that the local number of people experiencing homelessness has increased substantially since the last official count. Though precise figures are difficult to obtain, there is broad agreement that current services are overwhelmed and under-resourced.

In nearby Prince Edward County (PEC), while the most recent official count identified 45 individuals, local agencies acknowledge that the actual number is likely much higher. Experts suggest that for every person counted, three to five more are missed — hidden homelessness remains widespread in rural areas where individuals often sleep in vehicles, sheds, or rely on temporary arrangements. This suggests the real number in PEC could easily exceed 150 to 200 people.

PEC has taken action with initiatives like Leeward House, a transitional housing facility, and a new five-year housing plan focused on increasing affordable and supportive units. However, demand continues to outpace supply.

What’s Being Done?

Despite the stalled progress on the HUB, there is potential for a new path forward. In early 2025, Ontario announced the creation of 27 Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hubs across the province — with Belleville selected as one of the locations.

These provincially funded hubs aim to provide integrated support services, including addiction treatment, mental health care, supportive housing, and employment support. While this initiative aligns closely with the original intent of the HUB, the government has not yet released details about when or how the HART Hub will be implemented in Belleville — or whether it will incorporate the infrastructure already developed for the HUB.

In the meantime, the city continues to support short-term emergency services and local organizations that offer outreach, meals, and temporary shelter. However, these measures are not enough to address the full scope of the crisis.

Conclusion: A Turning Point That Demands Leadership

Belleville’s stalled HUB project is emblematic of a larger problem — local governments are willing and ready to act but lack the sustained support needed to bring lasting solutions to life. With rising homelessness, addiction, and mental health concerns placing increasing strain on municipal resources, the need for coordinated provincial leadership has never been greater.

The success of the proposed HART Hub — and the future of any HUB-style initiative in Belleville — will depend on whether all levels of government are prepared to invest in meaningful, long-term change.

For now, the city's most vulnerable continue to wait.

How You Can Help?

To support the ongoing fight against homelessness in our community, a portion of all donations received through this article will be reinvested directly into local efforts. Whether it's providing immediate assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness or contributing to trusted organizations dedicated to housing, outreach, and support services, your generosity will make a tangible difference. Together, we can help build a stronger, more compassionate future for everyone.

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