Addressing Homelessness: A Spotlight on Waterloo Region's Local Shelters and Fundraiser Initiatives
The number of people experiencing chronic homelessness has grown 28% each year since 2020, according to a report by the Waterloo Region’s Plan to End Chronic Homelessness.[i] While demand on our housing support systems continues to grow, there are dedicated people and organizations in our community striving to make a difference.
In our ongoing vision of communities where everyone experiences mental wellness, opportunities for employment, a place to call home, and a sense of belonging, we’re proud to highlight the shelters working to end and prevent homelessness – and how an upcoming fundraiser creates an opportunity for all of us to make an even greater impact on our community.
Finding Local Shelters in the Waterloo Region:
Waterloo Region’s network of shelters is committed to working together in a coordinated approach to help people find safe, permanent, and affordable housing. Some of these dedicated organizations include:
- Cambridge Shelter Corporation: Cambridge Shelter Corporation helps individuals experiencing homelessness to make positive changes in their lives. They provide shelter, outreach services, and engage with the community to create solutions to meet the unique needs of each person.
- House of Friendship: House of Friendship provides, food, addiction treatment, shelter for men, and long-term, permanent supportive housing for single adults. They help individuals who are struggling with poverty and/or addiction rebuild their lives and overcome homelessness.
- Safe Haven Youth Services: Safe Haven Youth Services provides youth aged 12-18 with a safe place to stay in the Waterloo Region, along with crisis and respite services. Our compassionate staff works with each individual youth and their family to supply the resources and support they need to build life skills that prevent homelessness.
- OneROOF Youth Services: OneROOF is a youth-centered organization that offers support and housing solutions to homeless and at-risk youth aged 12-25 in Waterloo Region. Their services include emergency shelter programs for youth aged 16-25 years, counseling, and help with education and employment.
- YW Kitchener-Waterloo: YW Kitchener-Waterloo provides emergency shelter and transitional housing to women and families in need. They offer a safe and supportive environment, empowering women to regain independence and outreach programs.
If you need emergency shelter and would like to discuss your options, please call the Prevention and Diversion line at 519-624-9133.
Hockey Helps the Homeless Waterloo Region: 11th Annual Tournament
One of the organizations making an impact in Waterloo Region is Hockey Helps the Homeless
(HHTH). Over the years, HHTH Waterloo Region has donated $2.5 million to our local emergency shelter network. Their upcoming fundraiser on October 25th marks the 11th Annual Pro-Am Hockey Tournament that brings together passionate community members who want to make a difference right here in Waterloo Region. All funds raised will go to support: The Working Centre, OneROOF Youth Services, YW Kitchener-Waterloo, Safe Haven Youth Services, House of Friendship, and Cambridge Shelter Corporation.
Getting Involved:
We’re proud to shine a light on the work of our local shelters, Hockey Helps the Homeless, and the dedication of our community who continue to support the belief that everyone should have a safe place to call home. Join us on October 25th and find out how you can participate in HHTH fundraiser or reach out to the highlighted shelters. These organizations are constantly seeking support, whether through volunteering, donations, or raising awareness of local homelessness support systems. By getting involved, you can take part in building a stronger, more inclusive community, and bring hope to those in need in Waterloo Region.
[1] The Region of Waterloo. (2023). Mid-Project Key Findings. The Plan to End Chronic Homelessness. https://pub-regionofwaterloo.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=5102
Instagram Feed
Latest from our Blog
Nov 15, 2024Stand Out on your Housing Application with a Renter Cover LetterAdding a Renter Cover Letter could help give landlords insight into why you’d be a great tenant. This summary of the Renter Cover Letter Toolkit by the Canadian Centre for Housing Rights (CCHR) shows you how to create a strong cover letter while protecting yourself from discrimination.
Nov 5, 2024Is Your Resume Missing These Essential Skills?Have you heard before that your resume should highlight both Hard and Soft skills? Those don’t mean Difficult and Easy skills! Let’s talk about these categories and some ways to recognize the full range of skills you have.
Oct 29, 2024Identifying Anxiety TriggersAnxiety can be tough to navigate. But one of the first steps to gaining control is understanding what triggers that anxiety. By identifying these triggers, you can start to find ways to cope.
"Lutherwood is a dynamic place of growth and learning - it is impossible to leave with only a job. If you're worried about your career... I cannot think of a better place to get yourself back on your feet."