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:
- Staff office upgrades to enhance support spaces to better serve residents.
- Looking at options to refresh old wooden lounge furniture to enhance individual living spaces and create more inviting and comfortable common areas.
- Planning and obtaining quotes for a flooring overhaul for a much-needed flooring update.
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.
