Project Tiny Hope

The Need in our Community

Like many communities across Canada, we are experiencing a housing crisis with a lack of affordable rental units.  With increasing rental rates and limited housing stock, many individuals and families find themselves living in substandard conditions, couch surfing or accessing shelter. With the cost of living increasing families are forced to make the impossible decision of buying food or paying rent.  Our community desperately needs to create new supportive housing options that are affordable and adequate.  Our new build at 21 Kains Street will provide stable housing with personalized supports to build life stabilization as the foundation to build upon other goals such as economic security, wellness and community connectedness.

Affordable Housing at 21 Kains Street

The creation of new YWCA rental units will be inclusive to diverse populations from all walks of life.  A mix of one, two and three bedroom rental units will accommodate adults, youth and families. Each tiny home will be equipped with a full kitchen, bathroom, laundry, private bedrooms and living room providing dignity and comfort. Our tiny homes will be built to net zero ready standard providing a far more energy efficient and less expensive home to operate. These homes are healthier, quieter and more comfortable. Doug Tarry Homes will be the lead builder for our housing expansion and with their knowledge and expertise these homes will be both comfortable and beautiful. 

A YWCA Program House will be central to the property. The facility will be a shared experience with gathering spaces, meeting rooms and a collective learning kitchen accessible to all residents. This welcoming Program House will provide an inviting spot for residents to gather, attend programs, socialize, and connect with other residents or visitors.

YWCA Services and Supports

Our residents will come from all walks of life and as such, those who may require case management will be supported by their existing support services or if needed, introduced to a YWCA support with a focus on housing stability and personal well-being.  The YWCA will offer case management, system navigation, life skill development, community building events and opportunities to participate in group-based programming such as: financial literacy, food security or skills training.

Applications

Applications will not be accepted through the YWCA as those already on existing affordable housing lists through YWCA and the City of St.Thomas will be considered as a priority. 

Project Partners

Please note, donations of $1,000 or higher will be recognized on our website and social media unless otherwise notified. Online donations accepted up to $999. For donations greater than this amount, you may provide e-transfer to finance@ywcaste.ca, donate by cheque to ‘YWCA St.Thomas-Elgin’ or in person at our main office. 

Project Tiny Hope Capital Campaign Committee Members:
Bryan White, Andrew Gunn, Laurie Intven, Andrea Hayes, Mary Jane Ferriman, Marla Champion, Sarah Lounsbury and Lindsay Rice

We are honoured to recognize our Circle of Hope Leaders who have contributed $10,000 or more to Project Tiny Hope. You are champions in our community and see first-hand the impact of your support. An investment in affordable housing is an investment in the future of St.Thomas. 

Project Donors & Pledges

$3 Million

$1+ Million

$500,000 – $999,999

The McLorn Family Estate

$250,000 – $499,999

$150,000 – $249,999

$100,000 – $149,999

$50,000 – $99,999

Landscape Installation Partners: Beamish Landscape Services, Kettle Creek Landscaping, Peeters Landscaping, Second Nature Landscaping & Sparta Tree Spade

$10,000 – $49,999

Brynne Spence-Coleman: Daphne Spence Memorial Run & Volleyball Tournament
Cindy and Dave Reid
Diana House
Don and Hazel Williams Charitable Foundation
Donna Kerrigan – In memory of Beatrix Horn
Duggie and Ted Gill
Estate of Marianne Barrie
Estate of Shirley Broadbent
Grace and Gerald Schipper
Joan and Matthew Janes
Julia and  Kirk Maltby
Laurie and Charlie Nagge
Louise and Jack Ferriman
St.Thomas Anglican Church and in memory of George and Cela Sloan
St.Thomas Rotary Club

$1,000 – $9,999

Liz and David Currie
Locky Lane Visual Design
Lori and Joel Kielstra
Louis Beneteau
Margaret Carroll
Mary Jane Ferriman
Mary Rutten
McBain Signs & Graphic Design
Monique and Malcolm Wood
Municipal Retirees Organization of Ontario
Pharmasave – Elgin Mall Pharmacy
Pharmasave – Shedden Pharmacy
Rick Harper – in memory of Marlene Harper
Royal Canadian Legion St.Thomas – Branch 41
Royal LePage Triland Realty
Sharon Battley
Shedden Oddfellows #310
St.Thomas Elgin Home Builders’ Association
St.Thomas Oddfellows #76
Sine Herold
Stefanie Coleman and John Bos
Stirling Chapter IODE
Supreme Rebekah Lodge
Talbotville Optimist Club
Tammy Kennedy
The Clearing
The Forever Legacy Foundation
Van Simpson