Housing Matters in the Communities We Serve
November 22, 2024
By Marco Campana, Knowledge Mobilization and Social Action Coordinator, Access Alliance
The communities we serve all tell us how urgent the housing crisis is in their daily lives.
Our recent Taylor-Massey Oakridge (TMO) Community Health Needs Assessment identified the cost of housing and housing quality as the top concerns or amongst the top concerns. This was a high concern particularly for those under 65 years of age. Regardless of age, gender, or race, the cost of housing and housing quality were identified as the top concerns or amongst the top concerns.
In our focus group discussions with TMO residents they expressed the growing challenges of affording rent or finding housing within the area. Consistent with our survey findings, they identified the escalating cost of housing as a top concern. Despite many people moving to the TMO area due to historically lower housing costs, they now find that high rental costs contribute to difficulties in making ends meet, particularly for families.
Not only is housing a concern, finding affordable housing and being able to access housing support services are also highly needed.
“I’ve lived my whole life practically in this community and just because of that need now I’m looking to switch provinces all the way across the country just to afford something.” Focus Group Participant
Residents shared that the high housing costs make it difficult to afford other essential goods and services, including food. One older adult remarked that “most of my income goes to my rent.”
“With the one salary, four or five members in the house. It’s very difficult to live in Toronto nowadays.”
The inability to support clients with needs such as housing is also a source of stress for service providers. They tell us that it is hard to respond to housing needs because Toronto is in a housing crisis.
Newcomer 2SLGBTQI+ Communities and Housing
We know that housing affordability and quality is a concern for all Torontonians. In the communities we serve, we’ve also learned that newcomers and 2SLGBTQI+ communities are particularly affected.
Our 2021 Building Positive Spaces for Newcomer 2SLGBTQI+ Women project investigated systemic discrimination and barriers that 2SLGBTQI+ newcomer women and other trans and gender non-conforming newcomers in Toronto face at the societal level and within current programs/services.
The issues start upon arrival, when many access Toronto’s shelter services:
The issues continue when they search for permanent housing:
In 2021 we brought together a panel of experts to talk about the unique and layered discrimination facing 2SLGBTQI+ newcomers in accessing housing and shelters in Toronto. Then, as now, it is important to bring awareness to this issue and explore a way forward in terms of improving access to housing for 2SLGBTQI+ newcomers.
Watch the Confronting Housing Discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ Newcomers panel discussion:
In 2022, we collaborated with East York East Toronto (EYET) to hold a Community Conversation where housing workers and professionals, shelter workers, and others in the newcomer-serving sector came together to learn about and discuss the challenges and barriers faced by 2SLGBTQI+ newcomers in Toronto when it comes to accessing housing. Participants compiled recommendations and resources, such as:
- Spreading knowledge of rental laws, and the tenants’ rights. It is essential to have information in different languages.
- Housing is a human right and should be looked at this way by everyone including landlords.
- More agencies should start having these discussions. There should be best practices developed.
Read a summary of small group discussions (on the page click on Challenges and barriers for LGBTQ+ Newcomers to read the summary).
Among Friends Housing support workshops for 2SLGBTQI+ newcomers
We organized housing information sessions for our 2SLGBTQI+ newcomer clients through our Wednesday webinars and in-person learning circles’ workshops. These sessions covered housing resources, service providers, housing requirements, tenant rights, and techniques for finding appropriate housing.
We provide clients with the necessary tools to navigate the system effectively and position themselves for better long-term housing options. We continue to refer clients to housing services and share relevant information, helping them navigate the complex housing market and connect with appropriate service providers.
Today is National Housing Day
November 22nd marks National Housing Day in Canada. It is a day to recognize and reflect on these and other ongoing efforts to improve access to safe and affordable housing for all across Canada. The day is also an opportunity to call on all levels of government to urgently address the housing crisis faced by low-income renters.
Housing advocates and community members all want to see an increase in housing supply, rental assistance, rent regulations, wrap-around supports, and focused attention on the need for social housing.
It’s important to recognize that Canadians have a right to housing: “In June 2019, the government of Canada passed legislation recognizing housing as a fundamental human right, and in December 2019, the City of Toronto took the historic step of recognizing housing as a human right in its HousingTO 2020-2030 Action Plan.”
Housing Supports and Events
Housing Events at AccessPoint on Danforth in November
Housing Financial Assistance Programs: Info Session for Newcomers
Did you know there are financial assistance programs available to help you cover certain costs related to your monthly housing expenses? Join us to learn more.
WHO: Newcomers, community members
WHEN: Monday, Nov. 25, 1:30–3:30 pm
WHERE: AccessPoint on Danforth – 3079 Danforth Avenue
We also provide workshops on Tenant’s Rights as well as affordable housing options for Newcomers in Canada. You can also sign up to receive a free updated housing list every week. Contact us to learn more.
Community Events in Toronto on November 22nd
Expand Tenant Rights and Social Housing Now!
ACORN will gather for a rally to highlight the urgent need for social housing.
Time: 2:00 PM EST
What and Where: At Grenville St and Yonge St (one block north of College)