When we last posted, we mentioned a few upcoming projects at Wesley Youth Housing, and now, we’re excited to report that they’ve become a reality!
Over the past few months, two major upgrades have been completed. First, the staff offices received a refresh, creating brighter, more functional spaces where our team can better support residents.
Then came the flooring overhaul, a much-needed project that replaced the damaged, retro floors with something modern, durable, and easy to care for.
When you walk through the building today, you can feel the difference. The new floors give the space a fresh, welcoming look and help create a cleaner, more comfortable home for youth in our program.
Residents have noticed too. One shared, “The new floors look great and are way better than before! We’re all really enjoying the space.”
A huge thank you goes out to everyone who made this transformation possible — from the residents and staff who helped prepare, to our Property Services team for planning and implementation, and the administrative staff who kept things moving behind the scenes.
These renovations were funded through our Case for Kids event and the Wesley Open Golf Tournament. We’re deeply grateful to our generous donors and supporters for helping create a space that youth can truly feel proud to call home.
At Wesley, we believe that every young person deserves more than just a place to stay—they deserve a home that supports their growth, stability, and future. For youth transitioning out of homelessness, a comfortable and safe environment is life-changing. That’s why, thanks to our incredible donors, we’ve been working hard to refurbish Wesley Youth Housing, ensuring it provides not only shelter but also a space where young people can heal, learn, and thrive.
Having been in operation for the last 17 years, it was time to update the original wooden furniture that has become worn out and damaged with consistent long-term use. This was also an opportunity to revisit what would give youth a sense of pride in their new living space. Many of the youth who come to Wesley Youth Housing have faced significant instability—living with a constant threat of homelessness looming, moving between shelters, staying in unsafe conditions, or struggling to find a secure place to sleep. Providing them with a welcoming, well-furnished space isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about dignity, security, and opportunity.
Better WiFi = Better Access to Education & Employment
For youth working toward finishing high school, attending college, or applying for jobs, reliable internet is a necessity. From August to September 2024, we installed new WiFi access points in every room, ensuring they have the connectivity needed for schoolwork, job searches, and staying in touch with support networks.
New Furniture = A Sense of Stability & Ownership
A bed to sleep in, a desk to study at, and a comfortable place to relax—all of these contribute to a sense of stability that young clients may not have experienced before they arrived at Wesley Youth Housing. Having more modern furniture in styles youth might choose for themselves was an important consideration when choosing new items.
In January 2025, guided by feedback from youth residents, 19 individual rooms were thoughtfully refurbished. Updates included enhancements to existing furniture and the addition of new items to address specific needs, such as improved lighting and increased storage. These changes aimed to create a more organized, comfortable, and inviting living space and included items such as:
- Updated bedframes, bedside tables, and lamps to create a restful, home-like atmosphere.
- Updated desks, chairs, new floor and desk lamps to replace old, worn-out pieces and support productivity for those in school or starting new jobs.
- New clothing storage, bathroom organizers, shoe racks, and laundry hampers help keep spaces organized and create a sense of pride.
- A replacement dining table to eat meals they may have learned to cook for themselves.
- New curtains to increase privacy, light blocking for better sleep, and make the room feel warmer than the old plastic blinds.
Our work isn’t done. We’re continuing to make Wesley Youth Housing a place where youth can thrive. Upcoming projects include:
- Looking at options to refresh old wooden lounge furniture to enhance individual living spaces and create more inviting and comfortable common areas.
We thank our Wesley donors who care so much about helping people. Being able to refurbish Wesley Youth Housing is yet another way your generosity is making a tangible difference in the lives of unhoused young people right here in Hamilton.
Stay tuned for more updates as the transformation continues—one step at a time.
