Ronan Henneberry shared how affordable housing at The Refuge in Oshawa transformed his life positively. He has been residing with his cat in one of the 26 units at the center since May, stating that it has provided him with much-needed options and security, eliminating the fear of homelessness.
The Refuge initiated its affordable housing initiative in response to Oshawa’s homelessness crisis, with nearly 500 individuals homeless in the city and around 1,000 in the broader Durham Region. Clarence Keesman, the executive director at The Refuge, highlighted how youth have been marginalized in the housing market, leading to deteriorating mental and physical health issues.
Residents at The Refuge pay $425 monthly, equivalent to their housing benefits from Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program. The housing program, which lasts four years and is renewable, offers vital amenities such as meals, laundry facilities, and counseling services. Keesman emphasized the critical role of affordable housing in addressing homelessness, noting the center’s increased activity in recent years due to housing affordability challenges.
While the units at The Refuge provide essential housing, there remains a significant gap in meeting housing needs in Oshawa. The city has fallen short of its housing targets, and efforts are underway to create 600 affordable housing units in Durham Region, including redevelopment projects in central Oshawa. Tyler Frederick, an associate professor at Ontario Tech University, stressed the importance of providing the right type of housing, particularly affordable rental options, to effectively combat homelessness.
Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter highlighted ongoing collaboration efforts to enhance affordable housing provision and support services for individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. He emphasized the need for strategic investments that combine housing with support services to facilitate individuals’ transition from homelessness to independence.
Henneberry advocated for more centers like The Refuge across Durham Region, offering safe shelter and the security of a lease. He shared stories of people enduring hardships to find shelter, emphasizing the urgent need for more supportive spaces to address homelessness challenges effectively.
