Toronto City Council Gives Final Approval to Ground Breaking Mixed Use Development Proposal:
The Red Door Family Shelter to Remain at 875 Queen St. E.
TORONTO, ON – February 3, 2016 –Toronto City Council has approved a plan put forth by the Red Door Family Shelter, the City of Toronto and Harhay Developments to save the Red Door Family Shelter, one of Toronto’s oldest shelters for families. The mixed-use development plan is the first of its kind in Toronto to combine community services, retail and residential condos on the same site. The development will allow the Red Door Family Shelter to remain at its long-time home in Leslieville.
“This is a historic moment for the Red Door Shelter,” remarked Carol Latchford, Director of Client Services for the Red Door Shelter. “With Council approval, we have a secured future.”
The Red Door Shelter is grateful to Harhay Developments for their continued support and acknowledges their great partnership throughout the process of saving the shelter. Harhay Developments will move forward with development plans for a condominium on the site. Construction is set to begin in late 2016, with the goal of completion in late 2018.
“We would not be here today without the support of our community, the leadership of Councillor Paula Fletcher, and the support of Harhay Developments. There is more to do as we continue to raise the $3 million needed for equipment, furnishings, and resident services,“ says Latchford.
"This is a tremendous breakthrough for how innovative new development can take shape, and I hope the success story of the Red Door Shelter will be a model for inclusive communities across Toronto," said City Councillor Paula Fletcher. "The outpouring of support from Leslieville residents for the Red Door was remarkable and is a testament to the great work the Red Door does in supporting women and families in need."
The new facility will have 20,000 square feet of new shelter space, which allows families to have access to private bedrooms and bathrooms.
To contribute to the campaign, please visit reddoorshelter.ca/building-hope
About the Red Door Shelter
Since 1982, the Red Door has provided services for families and individuals who need safe and supportive emergency shelter. Responding to the growing need for shelter space for homeless families, the Red Door was opened in the basement of the WoodGreen United Church by a group of volunteers. It has now grown to be one of the largest family shelters in the city, providing shelter and support to over 500 families every year.
For media requests or further information, please contact:
Morgan Murphy
416-629-2143
morgan.murpyhy@smithcom.ca