Public input helping to shape 1635 Dundas

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“Following the purchase of 1635 Dundas Street in Whitby, the Region hosted a community engagement session for residents to share their feedback, ask questions, and provide input that will help shape the decisions affecting their community.

We feel strongly that respectful, meaningful, two-way engagement is essential to this process. The input and concerns that were brought forward will be considered with the development of services to be offered at the site.

We do want to provide clarification about several questions raised during the August 30 event. First, the purchase of the facility was completed with approval from Regional Council, through a confidential report, so as not to interfere with commercial negotiations.

At this stage, there is approval for a temporary shelter for 45 residents to open this fall. Unlike other shelters, this site offers enough space for people to stay indoors during the day—even during cleaning. Service users will have access to a bed, food services, and support services within the facility. The goal: to ensure people can stay inside, rather than being pushed out onto the streets daily.

Council and staff are committed to public engagement that will help to shape its use; beyond the initial plans. You have raised questions and concerns. Be assured that we continue to listen. Please submit comments via our online platform and complete our survey (until September 27).

There will be future engagement opportunities, beginning in October, to continue this dialogue with the community. Together, we can shape the supports available to those in need.

Throughout Durham, there is growing demand for housing and homelessness services. In Whitby alone, homelessness grew 144 per cent in one year. The 1635 Dundas facility is one component of the supports available for people at risk of becoming homeless—and those who are homeless—and who have a human right to be sheltered and live in areas of their choosing.

To learn more about 1635 Dundas, or for project updates, please visit Your Durham.”

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.