Micro-shelter village being built in Scarborough

A plot of land in Scarborough is being transformed into a 10-unit micro-shelter village, according to a team of community advocates led by Ryan Donais, executive director of Tiny Tiny Homes. Donais explained that the village will include a common space, a staffing office, and a social work office where residents can meet with doctors and social workers.

The project, dubbed 'Brent's Place', aims to provide transitional housing to help people regain their footing. Donais emphasized that the initiative seeks to assist those who have fallen on hard times. The village will be situated behind Sefonias Catering, a family-run bakery and catering service that is leasing its property for the project at a nominal rate of $1 per year for three years.

Donais credited the Samuel family for their generous donation, noting their long history of catering to shelters. Once the transitional homes are in use, the Samuel family plans to offer food and training programs for residents. Eric Williams, the first resident to enter the tiny home village, expressed optimism about the opportunity to transition to a more permanent residence.

Williams, who has been homeless over the past three years, emphasized that the tiny homes represent a significant step forward. The City of Toronto has reviewed the proposal, ensuring that it meets all necessary zoning, building, and regulatory requirements before proceeding. The City's media relations manager stated that they are working collaboratively with the builder/owner and will determine the appropriate next steps following the review. Donais aims to complete the development by December 31, 2026.