Whitby shelter to expand into supportive, transitional housing

A shelter at 1635 Dundas Street East, in Whitby, that has operated at or near capacity since opening March 2024, will expand to include supportive and transitional housing, following a major funding announcement from the federal government and the Region of Durham.

While the site has helped meet an urgent need for emergency shelter, stable housing solutions are essential to helping people move out of homelessness permanently. More than 460 people across Durham moved into housing after experiencing homelessness in 2025; but even more are ready, and are limited by the available number of supportive housing units. Increasing supportive housing is the goal at the centre of Phase 2 of the 1635 Dundas Street East initiative, which was announced on January 22. The federal government, in partnership with the Region of Durham, committed more than $53 million in combined funding to expand the site into transitional and supportive housing.

“Investment through the Affordable Housing Fund will transform the second and third floors into transitional and supportive housing where clients can move through the housing continuum, improve quality of life and increase opportunities for success,” explains John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO. “This project shows what we can achieve when different levels of government work together with compassion and purpose.”

Once construction is complete, Phase 2 of 1635 Dundas Street East will offer a total of 104 supportive and transitional housing beds and wraparounds supports to help people move towards permanent housing. The supports will include addictions recovery, palliative care support for seniors who are homeless, a medical clinic, as well as administrative and service spaces. With many services in one location, people will get the support they need, right at home.

“As the Member of Parliament for Whitby, I’m proud that our federal government is investing $40 million to address the diverse housing needs in our region,” said Ryan Turnbull, Member of Parliament for Whitby, who made the funding announcement on behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada.

“This funding will add supportive housing to the 1635 Dundas site, creating sustainable pathways from crisis to independence for people who have experienced homelessness, while building a healthier, safer and more compassionate community,” said Turnbull.

With the expansion, 1635 Dundas Street East will strengthen Durham Region's response to homelessness through stability, dignity and ongoing support.

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