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The Importance of Gendered Housing Options

  • Writer: Brianna Tota
    Brianna Tota
  • Mar 21
  • 1 min read

An individual’s gender is a large factor that can play a role in their safety and security as they explore different affordable housing options. Oftentimes survivors of trauma–particularly sexual violence–may prefer gender-segregated spaces to maintain their emotional security. To others, gendered spaces can offer a higher level of privacy and comfort especially in shared living spaces like bathrooms and dormitories. There are also many cultures and religions that have specific guidelines about gendered living arrangements, so providing opportunities to abide by these traditions improves the inclusivity of these spaces. Additionally, gendered shelters can specifically tailor their services and aid to address the issues that are prevalent among their residents. It is important to have gendered living arrangements that are accessible to all members of the unhoused committee, because while some individuals might not have a preference, creating this opportunity for those who are seeking it is paramount.


For more information on this issue you can visit this report

 
 
 

Crucial Construction in the Durham Region

  • Writer: Brianna Tota
    Brianna Tota
  • Feb 19
  • 1 min read

The Province of Ontario has recently increased investments to support people at risk of homelessness by funding a project to build more supportive housing in the Durham Region. The government provided over $8 million through the Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF), and more than $3 million in partnership with the Government of Canada through the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative (OPHI). This funding is crucial because it will allow for the construction of 27 transitional housing units in Beaverton and 18 affordable housing units in Whitby. These projects will provide services such as aiding individuals with building life skills, finding employment opportunities, improving mental health, and supporting addictions. Investments such as this are critical to addressing the rise in homelessness, and the programs that will be implemented at these housing units will be incredibly useful to help members of the unhoused community forge a path towards success.


 
 
 

Government Investments and the Cold Weather Plan

  • Writer: Brianna Tota
    Brianna Tota
  • Feb 6
  • 1 min read

The City of Toronto recently released its Homelessness Services Capital Infrastructure Strategy (HSCIS), which is a 10 year plan to expand the support provided to members of the unhoused community. The city plans to build 20 new shelters by the year 2033 and has already announced the locations of 6. Each of these shelters are designed to serve approximately 80 people and will accommodate many diverse groups. The shelters are driven by a focus of helping residents transition to stable housing, and these particular sites were chosen based on the demonstrated need in the area and suitability of the property in question. Additionally, the city announced that there will be an increase in services provided during the winter, including the activation of Metro Hall as a warming centre at -5℃ rather than -15℃, as was the case in previous years. The Jimmie Simpson Recreation Centre will also be activated when temperatures reach -15℃ or colder, increasing the number of Warming Centres to 7. The cold weather that we have been experiencing recently has caused incredibly harsh conditions for the homeless community, and so it is crucial that the City of Toronto continues to expand its efforts to aid those who may be suffering.


For more information about the new shelters that are being planned you can visit www.toronto.ca/newsshelters


 
 
 
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