A Housing First Approach
September 8
Housing acts as a foundation. When people have a home, they can live their lives more fully in community.
Housing First is a recovery-oriented approach that supports our community members dealing with the reality of homelessness by providing independent and permanent housing along with additional supports and services. An integrated model of common spaces and supports builds a community that generates roots and connectedness.
A Place of Safety and Dignity
97 Victoria N has long been a gathering place for those who are experiencing homelessness, are at risk of homelessness, or are street involved. St. John’s Kitchen receives over 1000 unique visitors per month, who come in to have hot, nutritious meals free of charge, and to access drop-in space, laundry, showers, washrooms and strategic problem-solving supports.
Life in congregate shelters and congregate drop-in spaces does serve basic needs in the short term. However it becomes unbearable over time as people lack privacy, rest and a place to feel secure.
We want to transform this space and create home for 38 people. Our goal is a place where residents can live safely and with dignity. The Working Centre has experience doing this in many spaces – University Ave, King Street, Charles Street, Queen Street – and now we can make this happen at 97 Victoria N.
38 Units of Supportive Housing
This project addresses the lack of supportive housing units. Every day at St. John’s Kitchen, we support those who have lost connections with family and friends while dealing with mental health and drug issues while struggling to find housing.
The new units at 97 Victoria N will be rent geared to income. These units will be eligible for supportive housing funding provided by the Region of Waterloo, targeting those most at risk for homelessness. The new housing will have 24/7 staffing supports, and connections to community and health care resources. Supportive staff will actively problem-solve and help build stability.
