1635 Dundas Street: Meeting immediate and long-term needs of Durham citizens without a home

The 1635 Dundas Street East project is a multi-phase initiative aimed at providing safe and inclusive housing support solutions to help individuals and families who need it most.

Durham Region welcomed the first occupants to 1635 Dundas Street East shelter on March 20, 2024. The shelter has provided a safe and supportive environment to over 100 unique individuals. The occupancy rate has been at or near capacity since opening.

Phase 2 now focuses on implementing what we heard from community engagement in Phase 1 by creating housing units with health and social supports and services. Durham Region values the insights and suggestions from our community members in informing the design and implementation of this facility that meets the needs of our residents.

Thank you for all the great input we received through our online survey for Phase 2. We appreciate and value all feedback.

The 1635 Dundas Street East: Phase 2 Community Engagement Report is now available.

Due to the expected inclement weather forecasted for this afternoon and evening, the Opening Reception of ‘How The Light Gets In’ at the Station Gallery in Whitby is being postponed to March 5 from 7 to 9 p.m.

The art exhibition showcases the latest visual production created at 1635 Dundas Street East and will be on displaying in until April 13 in the Jill Dyall Community Gallery.

We apologize for any inconvenience and hope to see you at the rescheduled event.

Visit StationGallery.ca for more information on ‘How The Light Gets In’ art exhibition.

Check out this virtual tour of 1635 Dundas:


The Region of Durham and Town of Whitby reach agreement for 1635 Dundas Street Project

On November 29, 2023, Durham Region and the Town of Whitby have reached an agreement related to 1635 Dundas Street. This decision will help to ensure collaboration that will allow the project to move forward. The Region purchased 1635 Dundas to help address the urgent need for housing and services. This will become part of the system of services across Durham to support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. It will help to provide immediate solutions to help individuals and families who need it most.

Read the Council report here and the Full Agreement on the right column of this page.


Community Liaison Committee

The 1635 Dundas Community Liaison Committee (CLC) has officially begun to meet on a monthly basis to share information, identify issues, concerns and mitigation strategies that will assist in a successful integration of this low barrier shelter into the broader community.

Meeting minutes will be posted online after they are approved by the Community Liaison Committee. The meeting minutes are posted to the right hand column under Community Liaison Committee Meeting Minutes.

If community members would like to connect with the CLC, please email CommunityLC@durham.ca.

Frequently Asked Questions Video Series on 1635 Dundas



Have your say!

The Region held a community engagement session to gather input on 1635 Dundas on August 30 and October 3, 2023. These sessions offered the community an opportunity to share their concerns, inquiries and ideas for the site.

If you were unable to attend the in-person community engagement session, share your questions and comments at any time through this project page, see below.

Subscribe to this page to receive updates.

Below is a recording of the Community Engagement Session held on October 3, 2023:



Visit https://www.durham.ca/SupportiveHousingProjects/ to learn more about this Whitby-based site, along with information on the Beaverton Supportive Housing Project and the Oshawa Micro-Homes Pilot Project.

The 1635 Dundas Street East project is a multi-phase initiative aimed at providing safe and inclusive housing support solutions to help individuals and families who need it most.

Durham Region welcomed the first occupants to 1635 Dundas Street East shelter on March 20, 2024. The shelter has provided a safe and supportive environment to over 100 unique individuals. The occupancy rate has been at or near capacity since opening.

Phase 2 now focuses on implementing what we heard from community engagement in Phase 1 by creating housing units with health and social supports and services. Durham Region values the insights and suggestions from our community members in informing the design and implementation of this facility that meets the needs of our residents.

Thank you for all the great input we received through our online survey for Phase 2. We appreciate and value all feedback.

The 1635 Dundas Street East: Phase 2 Community Engagement Report is now available.

Due to the expected inclement weather forecasted for this afternoon and evening, the Opening Reception of ‘How The Light Gets In’ at the Station Gallery in Whitby is being postponed to March 5 from 7 to 9 p.m.

The art exhibition showcases the latest visual production created at 1635 Dundas Street East and will be on displaying in until April 13 in the Jill Dyall Community Gallery.

We apologize for any inconvenience and hope to see you at the rescheduled event.

Visit StationGallery.ca for more information on ‘How The Light Gets In’ art exhibition.

Check out this virtual tour of 1635 Dundas:


The Region of Durham and Town of Whitby reach agreement for 1635 Dundas Street Project

On November 29, 2023, Durham Region and the Town of Whitby have reached an agreement related to 1635 Dundas Street. This decision will help to ensure collaboration that will allow the project to move forward. The Region purchased 1635 Dundas to help address the urgent need for housing and services. This will become part of the system of services across Durham to support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. It will help to provide immediate solutions to help individuals and families who need it most.

Read the Council report here and the Full Agreement on the right column of this page.


Community Liaison Committee

The 1635 Dundas Community Liaison Committee (CLC) has officially begun to meet on a monthly basis to share information, identify issues, concerns and mitigation strategies that will assist in a successful integration of this low barrier shelter into the broader community.

Meeting minutes will be posted online after they are approved by the Community Liaison Committee. The meeting minutes are posted to the right hand column under Community Liaison Committee Meeting Minutes.

If community members would like to connect with the CLC, please email CommunityLC@durham.ca.

Frequently Asked Questions Video Series on 1635 Dundas



Have your say!

The Region held a community engagement session to gather input on 1635 Dundas on August 30 and October 3, 2023. These sessions offered the community an opportunity to share their concerns, inquiries and ideas for the site.

If you were unable to attend the in-person community engagement session, share your questions and comments at any time through this project page, see below.

Subscribe to this page to receive updates.

Below is a recording of the Community Engagement Session held on October 3, 2023:



Visit https://www.durham.ca/SupportiveHousingProjects/ to learn more about this Whitby-based site, along with information on the Beaverton Supportive Housing Project and the Oshawa Micro-Homes Pilot Project.

  • How can I donate to a shelter in Durham Region?

    The Regional Municipality of Durham works together with numerous organizations and community groups that accept clothing and food donations year-round for people experiencing homelessness.
    There are specific needs to support individuals and families such as personal care items, food and kitchen supplies, clothing, bedding, and other miscellaneous items.
    There are several places in Durham Region to donate please get in touch with each organization to find out which items are in need and to donate directly.

    Christian Faith Outreach Centre (CFOC) - Doors of Compassion

    158 Harwood Ave S., Ajax, Ontario L1S 2H6
    Phone: 905-619-2670
    Email: info@cfoc.ca
    Donate Now - Christian Faith Outreach Centre CFOC

    Cornerstone

    133 Simcoe Street South, Oshawa, Ontario  L1H 4G8
    Phone: 905-433-0254 or 1-844-433-0254
    Email: GeneralInquiry@CornerstoneDurham.com
    Get Involved - Cornerstone Community Association Durham

    -Used Clothing
    Due to the volume of donations of used clothing, and our extremely limited storage space, we no longer accept donations of used clothing. Cornerstone has arrangements to access your kind donation through the following local organization: 
    Salvation Army, 45 King Street East, Oshawa, ON L1H 1B2, 905.728.1743

    -Food Donations
    Cornerstone accepts food donations. We cannot accept homemade foods or packages of food that have been previously opened, used or frozen. All food donations are inspected by our food services program to ensure they can be used. 

    -Furniture
    Furniture items may be accepted only if the item is inspected in advance, the item is of immediate use or storage is procured, and provided the donor is willing to drop the item(s) off.

    -Monetary Donations
    Thank you for considering a donation to help with our ongoing operations! 

    Donate Now - Cornerstone

     

    Durham Youth Services

    82 Kings Crescent, Ajax, Ontario  L1S 2M6
    Phone: 905-239-9477
    Email: contact@durhamyouth.com

    Ways to Donate | Durham Youth Services – Various monetary options for donating.

    Holiday Giving | Durham Youth Services – Holiday Wishlist including new clothing, household items, hygiene items, and gift card ideas.

    Donate - Durham Youth Services – Virtual Coat and Boot Drive.


    Muslim Welfare Home

    425 Dundas Street East, Whitby, Ontario  L1N 2J2
    Phone: 905-665-0424 or 1-866-666-1115
    Email: muslimwelfarecentre@gmail.com
    Donate - Muslim Welfare Homes – Monetary Donations


    Dedicated Advocacy Resource Support

    Drop-off Gift Cards or Pantry Items on or before Thursday, December 12th
    Peace Lutheran Church: 928 Liverpool Rd. – Backdoor, lower parking lot.
    Thursdays 4:30pm-6:30pm or by appointment. Call or text John Paul at 647-704-9015

    McDonalds/ Dollarama Gift Cards: ranging from $5-$25
    Pantry Donations – Canned Meat or Fish, Cans of Fruit, Ready to Eat Items (such as ravioli/ hearty stews and soups). Pop-top cans are preferred for ease of use. Water Bottles or Juice/ Drinks. Peanut Butter.
    Monetary Donations: DARSGIFTS@hotmail.com

    Do Unto Others 

    Overnight Drop-In
     446 Simcoe Street South, Unit D, Oshawa
    Hours: Daily 6 p.m. to 8 a.m.
    Phone: 905-213-9580
    Gently Used clothing for men and women. Winter jackets, boots, hats and gloves. Blankets and sleeping bags. If you have items to donate, please message or call them at 905-213-9580 to arrange pickup. If you prefer drop-off they are open from 6pm to 8am, 7 days per week.


    Backdoor Mission

    Oshawa Hub
    66 Simcoe Street South, Oshawa
    Located at the Backdoor Mission
    Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
    Phone: 905-728-4664
    Donations - Back Door Mission for the Relief of Poverty – Link to Monetary Donations

    -Clothing: Men’s pants, t-shirts, boxers (large/ XL), shoes (most in need sizes 8-12). Women’s pants, shoes, underwear (small/medium).

    -Housewares: Blankets, tarps, sleeping bags, bath towels, reusable shopping bags, can openers.

    -Food: snack foods (cookies, crackers, granola bars, cereal, etc.), juice/ Gatorade, easy-open canned meals/soups/stews, canned meats, canned vegetables, instant coffee, pre-ground coffee, meal supplement drinks, Mr. Noodles

    -Toiletries: Deodorant, travel-size shampoos & body wash, nail clippers, shaving razors, Kleenex, toilet paper, laundry pods.

    Email info@backdoormission.ca for a list of the most up-to-date list of needed items


    North House

    B-2 Elgin Park Drive
    Uxbridge, ON L9P 0B1
    info@northhouse.ca
    Brock: 705-432-8654

    Uxbridge/ Scugog: 289-640-1929
    Hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    Closed holidays and weekends
    Donate – North House – Monetary Donations


    Community Living Durham North

    60 Vanedward Drive, Unit 2
    Port Perry, Ontario L9L 1G3
    Tel: (905) 985-8511
    www.cldn.ca

    Donate Now - Community Living Durham North – Monetary Donations


    Violence Against Women Shelters

    -Denise House https://thedenisehouse.com/ is in Oshawa.

    Phone: 1-800-263-3725
    Donate - The Denise House 

    Have other questions about donating NEW Clothing, Food, Toiletries, Gift Cards or Special Holiday Gifts?  Please call 905-728-7311 and ask to speak to our Donations Coordinator or send an email to info@thedenisehouse.com.

    -Y’s WISH Shelter http://www.ywcadurham.org/emergencyshelter is in Oshawa.

    Phone: 905-576-6356
    Email: info@ywcadurham.org
    Donate - YWCA Durham


    -Bethesda House https://bethesdahouse.ca/ is in Bowmanville.

    Phone: 1-800-338-3397
    Bethesda || Charity & Fundraising


    -Herizon House http://www.herizonhouse.com/ is in Ajax.

    Phone: 1-866-437-4066
    Donate Now – Herizon House
    List of items online: money, food, gift cards, practical items.


  • Why is the Region using 1635 Dundas for a shelter?

    Homelessness is increasing across Durham Region. 1635 Dundas will help address our community’s urgent need by providing 45 shelter beds with wraparound supports. Wraparound supports are services that meet the individual needs of those accessing the shelter. This can include, counselling, financial services and life skills programming.

    The Region has a mandate to help provide shelter and support for vulnerable populations. 1635 Dundas offers several elements to support people experiencing homelessness, at risk of becoming homeless and other vulnerabilities because:

    • It is large so people will not need to leave during the day. They can stay inside and access support.
    • It is already zoned to fit the intended use and is located on a major transit corridor.
    • It has a good foundation to improve quickly for occupancy including:
      1. Toilets, showers and hygiene-related requirements exist.
      2. Has a mix of multipurpose and living space that will allow for safe shelter and housing options with on-site services to support people in meeting their goals.
    • During Phase 1, it offers space for people to sleep and space for services such as health, employment, food security, etc.
    • Longer term, it can offer a co-ordinated and accessible service delivery model that supports people, creates a sense of belonging and meets individual needs.

  • Once the building opens, who can I call to report a non-emergency?

    For help with homelessness support, you can connect by email: Homelesshelp@Durham.ca
    or by phone by calling 311 and pressing 4 for Homelessness and Housing.

    To report a non-emergency to Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) please call: 905-579-1520 or toll-free 888-579-1520. The non-emergency phone number is to be used when a crime has occurred that requires police, but the crime is not currently in progress, there is no immediate threat to life or property and there are no serious injuries. For examples on when to call the non-emergency phone number please visit DRPS.ca.

  • What will the Community Liaison Committee do?

    The 1635 Dundas Community Liaison Committee (CLC) meets monthly to share information, identify issues, concerns and mitigation strategies that will assist in a successful integration of this low barrier shelter into the broader community.

    Meeting minutes will be posted online after they are approved by the Community Liaison Committee. For example, the January minutes will be available the week of February 19.

    If community members would like to connect with the CLC, please email CommunityLC@durham.ca.

  • What are wraparound services?

    Wraparound services are offered by a multidisciplinary team of professionals (e.g. educators, mental health workers, employment counsellors, case coordinators, health care providers) who work with service users to create, implement and monitor a plan of support. A wraparound approach to service delivery is a strengths-based approach to helping people to meet their goals by ensuring accessible supports that meet the individual needs of the service user.

  • What measures are in place for wraparound supports and security for the site and its surrounding area when it becomes operational?

    The shelter will follow established best practices with community partners that offer health, housing, social, mental health and addiction and life skills building programs. Wraparound services will be in place and the indoor environment will have a full range of programs.

    The security for the site is currently in place and will continue to be in place at all levels required based on use. The Region is an experienced provider and takes safety and security very seriously. The shelter operator employs skilled professionals that supports both emotional and physical safety.

    All citizens accessing the shelter will complete intake and a support service assessment. Safety protocols and policies will be in place. Shelter and security staff are on site 24/7.

    There will be installation of a security system, including cameras and additional lighting, and a 10-foot privacy fence. Access to the shelter will only be at the Highway 2 (Dundas Street) entrance.

  • How many shelter beds will be added during Phase 2?

    1635 Dundas Street East has a capped limit of 45 low barrier shelter spaces. Phase 2 focuses on creating additional housing units with health and social supports and services. A conceptual design for Phase 2 was presented on June 26 at a Regional Council meeting and is available on Your Durham. Based on the concept site plans, Phase 2 will allow for an additional 70 supportive housing units.

  • Will staff be available around the clock to manage emergencies or concerns?

    Emergency shelter staff are on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Policies, procedures and protocols will be in place to ensure supervision and site management aligns with services offered at the site. When services are fully defined, the policies and procedures will be shared. Details such as hours of staff at the building, who to contact in case of question or concern, etc. As with any emergency you witness or experience in the community, please dial 911.

  • Are you hiring at 1635 Dundas Street East?

    At this time, Christian Faith Outreach Centre (CFOC) is operating the emergency shelter program at the site. Please contact CFOC for employment opportunities at 1635 Dundas Street East. Once plans are in place for housing and services in Phase 2, details about service providers will be made available.

    If you are seeking employment opportunities with the Region of Durham please visit durham.ca/careers.

  • What if a person using the shelter has something illegal with them?

    Service providers develop intake policies for their programs in accordance with the Region’s shelter standards. Intake processes include procedures for searches of belonging and people and don’t allow prohibited items. If an illegal item is found, it is discarded or reported as appropriate.

Page last updated: 17 Mar 2025, 07:59 AM