Why Homeless?

Traditional rental housing is fraught with challenges for those without strong credit or stable employment. Many landlords require proof of work, good credit scores, and upfront payments such as first and last month’s rent. Even if an individual can afford a monthly rent of around $400, these additional requirements often lock them out of the market.

You may have noticed rental ads offering “one bed” at surprisingly low prices. In these cases, “one bed” usually means a single bed in a shared room—not a full one-bedroom apartment. This setup is often the only option for people who struggle to meet the strict criteria for independent renting, but due to additional factors, such as background checks, these individuals’ applications are often rejected, rendering them homeless.

Our project addresses this gap by creating a shared living model specifically designed for individuals who have no family support and rely solely on government subsidies (like Ontario Works). As an entity, we leverage our bargaining power to secure rooms for individuals who otherwise may be homeless so that they benefit from government support like others with familial support.

By pooling funds and resources, we can provide stable housing where, for example, five individuals share a room with partitions that offer privacy. This approach ensures that every dollar of the government’s intended subsidy is actually spent on housing and food, rather than being reclaimed.

Ultimately, this shared housing solution not only overcomes the barriers of traditional renting but also gives these vulnerable individuals a real opportunity to live in a dignified, stable environment. With enough rooms available, our model has the capacity to serve a significant number of people—ensuring that no one is left without a roof over their head due to systemic challenges in the rental market.