More Temporary Housing Coming for Refugees in Hamilton
February 21, 2023, (HAMILTON, ON) The housing crisis is worsening, with the cost of housing at an all-time high. The barriers to housing are formidable for all low-income people, particularly for refugees who arrive in Canada with few resources and often flee war, famine, persecution or natural disasters.
As the largest refugee resettlement organization in the region, Wesley helped over 1000 people last year, including 650 Government Assisted Refugees from Afghanistan, Syria and all parts of the world. Wesley provides temporary accommodation and helps with food and assistance in getting families connected to health care, education, employment, and secure more permanent housing. Wesley also worked in partnership with local community agencies to help 350 newcomers from Ukraine.
To help meet the growing needs of people arriving in Canada, Wesley will be moving from 52 Catharine St N to a larger site at 467 Main Street E in Hamilton in the winter of 2023-24. Newcomers will live in individual suites with support from Wesley staff and allied professionals.
“This new facility will make Wesley an even greater source of hope and help for people who have been through unspeakable trauma,” said Don Seymour, Executive Director, “and it gives them a stronger start for this next chapter of their lives. We are grateful to the kind-hearted Hamiltonians who continue to support the work of Wesley to transform people’s lives.”
All other Wesley programs at 52 Catharine, including the Special Care Unit, will also be moving to the new site except the Wesley Day Centre, a drop-in centre for unhoused people, closing on March 31, 2023. Individuals will continue to receive meals as Wesley moves forward with community partners to create programs that will deepen support for people suffering from homelessness and help transition them to recovery.
Wesley is a long-standing local non-profit, offering support for people experiencing poverty, homelessness, and barriers in the community. Programs range from refugee resettlement, transitional housing to child care, youth and family programs. Wesley provides programs and services to meet diverse community needs in Hamilton, Halton and Brantford. Financial donations are always welcome. Learn more at wesley.ca
Don Seymour is available for interviews until March 3