Residents group helping city house homeless on Broadway
The City of Toronto has resumed its plans to clear out outdoor encampments and house the homeless in residential units, including with a six-month interim housing program for 125 residential units at 55-65 Broadway Ave.
And now it has the backing of the local residents’ association.
The Republic Residents’ Association had many concerns after the project’s initial announcement and set up a meeting with city representatives and councillors to get answers to its questions.
However, it seems all their concerns were handled as the residents’ association is now seeking donations in support of the new city housing program for the homeless in midtown Toronto.
In a statement provided to Streeter, the association said it is asking the public to help donate essential household and personal items.
The item are needed to help the residents thrive in their new residence and be able to transition as smoothly as possible to their next permanent home, said the association.
It is helping to provide the requested necessities in collaboration with Toronto-St. Paul’s councillor Josh Matlow and Mary Anne Bedard, the city’s general manager of shelter, support and housing administration.
The program removes people who have been living in outdoor encampments and places them in a safe place.
The Times Group Corporation, owner of the buildings on Broadway Avenue, is leasing units to the city for $55 a night which includes operating costs and utilities.
The temporary residents will receive meals, round the clock support and case management to help find permanent housing. They will also have access to a kitchen, laundry, free Wifi and cable television.
What’s needed
Items being sought as donations include:
- Small appliances, including kettles, toasters and coffee makers.
- Kitchen/cooking utensils, like can and bottle openers, wooden spoons and spatulas.
- Pots, lids, pans and cookie sheets.
- Cutlery and dishes.
- Lamps with working light bulbs if possible.
- Brooms and dustpans.
- Personal hygiene items, including soaps, shampoos, hairbrushes, combs, nail clippers, sanitary pads and tampons, disposable razors,toothbrushes and toothpaste.
- Large plastic containers for pet food storage.
- Used clothing, especially sweatpants, sweatshirts,t-shirts, pants, spring jackets. (Should be in good shape, clean,folded,and placed in plastic bags, indicating size and possible gender.)
- New undergarments: underpants, socks and bras.
- Wall art or other wall embellishments.
- Dollarama gift cards in small denominations ($10/$20).
To donate call the shift coordinator at 437-343-8057 to arrange dropoff at the front door of 65 Broadway Ave. This is to ensure they are following the social distancing policies.
Cash donations and tax receipts are not accepted. If you have any questions, contact the Republic Residents’ Association by email.
