Tuesday, January 27, 2026
The federal government, along with the Regional Municipality of Durham, announced over $53 million in combined funding to build 104 new transitional and supportive housing beds and to retrofit the 45 existing emergency beds already operating at 1635 Dundas Street East in Whitby.
This project transformed a former long-term care home into a safe and inclusive space that offers stability and support for individuals experiencing homelessness, including services for those facing alcohol and drug addictions.
“Our government is determined to help communities strengthen their capacity to develop local solutions to housing challenges and homelessness. Supporting 1635 Dundas Street is one of the ways we do that. I’m proud of our involvement in this project, and of the tangible difference it will make for people in this community,” said Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure.
Funding provided for the project included $40 million from the federal government, through the National Housing Strategy’s Affordable Housing Fund, and $13.7 million from the Regional Municipality of Durham.
“As the Member of Parliament for Whitby, I’m proud that our federal government is investing $40 million to address the diverse housing needs in our region. This funding will add supportive housing to the 1635 Dundas site creating sustainable pathways from crisis to independence for people who have experienced homelessness, while building a healthier, safer, and more compassionate community,” said Ryan Turnbull, Member of Parliament for Whitby.
“The low barrier shelter at 1635 Dundas Street East has been a lifeline for individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness — a safe place to sleep, eat and take steps toward housing. Investment through the Affordable Housing Fund will transform the second and third floors into transitional and supportive housing where clients can move through the housing continuum, improve quality of life and increase opportunities for success. This project shows what we can achieve when different levels of government work together with compassion and purpose,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO, the Regional Municipality of Durham.
Featured image: (Government of Canada)
