Durham has almost 300 registered on its homeless waiting list, with the number of unregistered homeless unknown.
“More people in our community are experiencing homelessness than ever before and the need is outpacing our ability to provide support. There are almost 300 people on the By-Name list,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, in an statement.
The By-Name List is a list of people currently experiencing homelessness, who provide consent to receive supports, and are engaged with the support system.
“We believe that everyone deserves to go to bed with a roof over their head, but the first step involves finding new shelter, supportive and transitional housing opportunities for vulnerable, low-income residents,” he said.
Durham Region has acquired a Whitby-based site that offers a chance to provide housing to those who need it. The new location expands the regional facilities across municipalities that offer safe housing and accessible services. Although the council report remains confidential—because it contains sensitive commercial details—it is important that community members understand how their input will help to shape its future use, said Henry.
He said the former Sunnycrest Nursing Home, now referred to as 1635 Dundas, is an ideal location for a temporary housing with wraparound supports. It will include several residential rooms with washroom facilities; common areas for support programs and services; and a private outdoor space.
Multiphase approach
“This site is large and will be developed using a multiphase approach in planning to help build services and support systems; in the short term, it will help meet our community’s immediate need. Long term, the site offers the potential for a co-ordinated and accessible service delivery model that supports people, creates a sense of belonging, and meets individualized needs,” he added.
Henry said 1635 Dundas will help people get back on their feet again and will be a facility that represents the community. There will be community and stakeholder engagement sessions this fall to gather input on the health and human services that would be beneficial to the site.
“It is our priority to work as quickly as possible to ensure that this site is ready for 45 residents with services to support their needs to transition to indoors this fall. Our first steps include deep cleaning and disinfection of equipment and fixtures, painting rooms and other spaces, completing floor repairs, installing fencing, and implementing community planning measures.
“We encourage everyone to remember that life circumstances—such as family breakdown, abuse, job loss, addictions or mental health challenges—can bring someone to be in crisis, without a place to call home. When this happens, people need support, and they need shelter,” Henry added.
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