Plan to build housing units at 1635 Dundas Street East

Phase 2 plans are afoot which include the building of housing units at 1635 Dundas Street East in Whitby, a safe and inclusive housing support facility for homeless individuals and families.

The 45-bed low barrier shelter with wraparound supports opened in the building at the end of March this year as part of the Phase 1 implementation of the project. The shelter has provided a safe and supportive environment to over 100 individuals. The occupancy rate has been at or near capacity since opening, said a statement from the Regional Municipality of Durham.

It said during Phase 1 engagement, the community identified areas of need including:

  • Individual housing options;
  • Programming supports to ensure physical, mental and addiction health needs are met; and
  • Partnerships with service providers to support growth opportunities for people including life skills and employment options.

“Phase 2 now focuses on implementing what we heard from community engagement in Phase 1 by creating housing units with health and social supports and services. By building a continuum of housing on site, 1635 Dundas Street East will provide transitional housing for those experiencing homelessness, supportive housing for those requiring specialized services, and accommodations for independent living,” said the statement.

It said the Community Liaison Committee meets monthly to share information, identify issues, and create mitigation strategies to promote successful integration of the shelter, and its patrons, into the broader community. The service provider, Christian Faith Outreach Centre (CFOC), provides a wide range of supports and services that aims to help patrons get back on their feet, including:

  • On-site mental health and addictions support provided by Lakeridge Health/Pinewood.
  • On-site harm reduction support services, housing, and employment assistance provided by John Howard Society.
  • Medical support provided by Durham Community Health Centre (DCHC).
  • Arts Programming.
  • We Grow Food Gardening project.

The first step of Phase 2 has begun with the online survey, available on Your Durham until September 27.

To learn more about 1635 Dundas Street East, or for project updates, please visit Your Durham.

Leave a Reply