Ronan Henneberry credits affordable housing at The Refuge in Oshawa with transforming his life. Since May, he has resided in one of the 26 units within the center, alongside his cat. Expressing gratitude for newfound options and security, Henneberry emphasized the relief of not facing homelessness concerns.
The Refuge, situated in a refurbished school building, initiated its affordable housing initiative in response to Oshawa’s identified homelessness crisis. The city reported nearly 500 homeless individuals within its borders, with an estimated 1,000 across Durham Region. Clarence Keesman, the center’s executive director, highlighted the challenges faced by youth priced out of the housing market, manifesting in deteriorating mental and physical health.
Residents at The Refuge pay $425 monthly, aligning with their housing benefits from Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program. The housing program spans four years, renewable based on the resident’s ongoing needs. Keesman underscored the necessity of accessible housing, emphasizing the risk of homelessness upon completion of shorter, non-renewable programs.
In addition to housing, The Refuge offers essential services like meals, laundry facilities, counseling, and recreational programs. Keesman noted a surge in demand, with 2024 marking the center’s busiest year in two decades. The correlation between housing affordability and homelessness was a recurring concern, reflecting the vital role of secure housing in societal stability.
Despite the positive impact of The Refuge’s housing initiative, it represents only a fraction of the housing demand in Oshawa. The city, alongside many municipalities in Ontario, has struggled to meet provincial housing targets. Tyler Frederick, an associate professor at Ontario Tech University, emphasized the importance of providing the right type of housing, particularly affordable rental options, to combat homelessness effectively.
Efforts are underway to address the housing shortage, with plans for 600 affordable units in Durham Region, including redevelopment projects in Oshawa. Mayor Dan Carter highlighted the need for integrated services to support vulnerable populations, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments in housing and related support programs.
Henneberry advocated for more shelters like The Refuge across Durham Region to ensure safe accommodation and stability for those in need. He recounted stories of individuals enduring hardships to secure shelter, underscoring the urgency of expanding supportive housing options to prevent further suffering.