Residential builders recognized for housing contributions
By Adam Freill
Construction ResidentialOntario’s residential housing construction sector supports pair of projects providing affordable housing to combat risk of homelessness.
From left: City of Toronto councillor Brad Bradford, Toronto mayor John Tory, Andrea Adams of St. Clare’s, and community builder and philanthropist Phil Rubinoff, representing RESCON. (Photo courtesy of RESCON)
Companies in Ontario’s residential construction industry were recently recognized for their work aimed at providing affordable housing in Toronto. More than $1.4 million was raised to put towards a pair of projects in the city. The campaign was spearheaded by community builder and philanthropist Phil Rubinoff, who chaired the fundraising committee.
The group approached and secured donations from residential builders and developers, construction associations, and labour unions for construction of two projects in Toronto that provide affordable housing to those who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of experiencing homelessness.
The funds were used to build affordable housing units at 25 Leonard Ave. and renovate supportive housing apartments at 877 Yonge St. Both buildings are managed by the St. Clare’s Multifaith Housing Society.
The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) and St. Clare’s marked the contributions of the builders with a plaque presentation and tour of the Yonge Street facilities this past week.
“Ontario’s residential construction industry was pleased to play a part in the expansion of both projects. We are delighted that they are now in operation and helping people get into appropriate housing,” stated RESCON president Richard Lyall. “These projects are great examples of what can be achieved when the private and public sectors and a non-profit organization team up for a good cause. By contributing to these projects, we are helping people who are experiencing homelessness get into affordable housing and providing apartments for those who are at risk of homelessness.”
Twenty-two housing units have been built at 25 Leonard Ave. They were erected on a small strip of land that was formerly a parking lot just east of Bathurst Street and across from Toronto Western Hospital, next to an existing 77-unit affordable housing building. The three-storey, brick building has studio apartments with a washroom, kitchen and combined sleeping/living space and enables people who have experienced long-term homelessness to get into a permanent residence.
Twenty-five supportive housing apartments have been built in a former senior’s residence at 877 Yonge St. The building consists of studio and one-bedroom apartments with supports for women, Indigenous residents, seniors, people with disabilities and people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
“The need for affordable housing has never been more severe,” explained St. Clare’s executive director Andrea Adams. “The completion of these projects is a meaningful step in the right direction, but not the end of our efforts. These projects are critical as they change the lives of people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, providing them with appropriate accommodation and dignity.”
