It’s going to cost Niagara much more than regional council appears willing to spend to keep its homelessness programs running at their current level next year, according to a new report by the regional community services department.

The report, which will be discussed by the public health and social services committee Tuesday, says to maintain service levels — that includes funding beds in shelters, outreach and prevention programs — the Region will have to add $800,000 to the $10.8-million homelessness services budget.

“That is well beyond the budget guidance of council,” said Cathy Cousins, the municipality’s director of homelessness services and community engagement.

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