MPA Major Research Papers
Date of Award
11-15-2023
Degree Type
Major Research Paper
Degree Name
Master of Public Administration
Program
Political Science
Geographical Areas
City of London, County of Middlesex, The Regional Municipality of Durham, Oshawa, Pickering, Whitby, Township of Brock, Ontario, Canada
Abstract
This paper assesses the effectiveness of London Ontario’s programs within its Newcomer Strategy and Housing Stability for All Action Plan. It employs a comprehensive evaluation framework while applying four of Evert Vedung’s (2013) policy evaluation models, the goal attainment, side-effects, relevance, and client model. The first two models focus on London’s Newcomer Strategy programs, which include the Immigration Portal and the London Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership, and the latter two will focus on the Housing Stability for All Action Plan, which includes London’s Rapid Housing Initiative. Acquiring observations from the models, the research strives to establish the successes and shortcomings of London’s programs in facilitating affordable housing and the integration of newcomers and refugees. Furthermore, a comparative analysis with the Regional Municipality of Durham’s settlement and housing initiatives provides valuable benchmarks. Findings have revealed that although London has implemented commendable strategies on both the housing and settlement streams, certain areas may require improvements. Recommendations under the programs of London’s Newcomer Strategy include enhancing awareness of the Immigration Portal and establishing additional networking partners for the city’s Local Immigration Partnership. Recommendations associated with the programs under London’s Housing Stability for All Action plan encompass the potential timeline extension of future housing stability plans and specifying income thresholds for eligibility in its Rapid Housing Initiative. This research factors to the ongoing theme of effective newcomer integration strategies, providing practical insights for policymakers and stakeholders in London as well as other municipalities. Through highlighting the identified gaps, the city can further enhance the success of its settlement as well as housing support policies and programs.
Recommended Citation
Omar, Raysso, "Affordable Housing and Settlement Support for Refugees in London Ontario: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Newcomer Integration Programs and Housing Initiatives" (2023). MPA Major Research Papers. 261.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/lgp-mrps/261