November 22, 2000 was recognized as National Housing Strategy Day. Events include raising awareness about housing and focusing on the needs of individual communities (The Homless Hub).
According to a 2014 report by the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP), statistics show that 12% of seniors live in poverty. That percentage amounts to approximately 600, 000 people, most of whom are seniors living alone and struggling financially.
St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre resident, Patrick, experienced his own struggles living alone in an environment that never seemed like a place he could call home.
Before living at St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre, Patrick lived in a shared space home, which meant each tenant had a bedroom to themselves, but shared a bathroom and kitchen.
“There was a barrier. I didn’t always feel secure and there was a definite lack of privacy. I felt like it wasn’t an environment I’d feel comfortable inviting my friends to.”
Patrick wanted a change in his life and a place to call his own, but with the rise of housing costs, it wasn’t easy.
“I applied for subsidized housing and was placed on a waiting list. When I first got a call about an available housing facility, I recognized it wasn’t somewhere I could feel comfortable in.”
A little while after, Patrick received another call from St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre. Not knowing what to expect, he made his way to the Centre.
“My first impression was how welcomed the Housing Administrator who greeted me made me feel. Feeling welcomed meant something to me.”
As he toured the Centre, the perception he had about subsidized housing was slowly diminishing. Coming to the Centre, he thought it wouldn’t be well kept or clean. He assumed the people would be unfriendly and unkind.
When asked how moving here has impacted his lifestyle, he beams with happiness as he speaks. The perception he once held no longer existed.
“I like knowing that I have access to community programs and volunteering opportunities. Although I haven’t taken advantage of it yet, I like knowing it is an option and I plan to get involved.”
Besides access to different opportunities, he adds, “Transit is right outside the building; banks, medical offices and the mall is literally right around the corner.”
“What do you like best?” I ask.
“My privacy. I have a kitchen, bathroom and bedroom to myself. I can invite friends over comfortably. People think subsidized housing has a bad image. It’s unclean or badly maintained, however that isn't always the case. I live in a well-kept environment."
When asked if he would recommend the Centre housing units to others, he smiles and confidently says, "Absolutely I would. I am very grateful. God was looking out for me. I found a place I could call home.”
To learn more about housing at St. Paul's L'Amoreaux Centre, click here. To contact our Housing Lead Annie Mac, please call 416-493-3333 or email us at info@splc.ca
