A new initiative in downtown Kitchener aims to help those experiencing homelessness in the area.
This new facility, part of a project called Making Home, is situated at 97 Victoria Street North in downtown Kitchener. It’s operated by The Working Centre, a non-profit organization that has supported individuals facing unemployment and homelessness for many years. The building features a medical center, a community kitchen, and 44 living units.
“It’s a communal place and it’s a place where people can come to get a meal when they really need it,” said Joe Mancini, co-founder of The Working Centre.
“In this new place, with this new design, it will be a welcoming space for all kinds of people, especially those who are struggling and want to come for a meal each day. This place is going to be there for them.”
Mancini mentioned that Making Home represents significant progress from their previous location at an Anglican church nearby known as The Church of St. John the Evangelist. The new facility is more modern, has the community kitchen on the ground floor, and includes an elevator for accessing the upper floors. In contrast, the old kitchen was located on the second floor which made it hard for some people to use.
WATCH | Take a tour of the new St. John’s Kitchen:
Take a tour of the new St. John’s Kitchen
The updated St. John’s Kitchen contains a medical center, community dining area, and 44 transitional housing units. It’s based at 97 Victoria Street N. in downtown Kitchener and managed by members of The Working Centre, which has been assisting individuals facing unemployment and homelessness for decades. Joe Mancini opened up the doors of this facility for tours.
“[The old location] was always busy. It would open early in the morning; people would come for coffee and meals were served every day,” Mancini explained while noting that the new kitchen can serve up to 500 people daily.
“But over time, that facility became worn down; it needed renovations. So we decided to integrate housing into this project.”
The Working Centre states that total costs for this project reached $22 million with over $12 million funded through regional, federal, and provincial grants including support from Waterloo’s Rapid Housing Initiative as well as contributions from other organizations such as Perimeter Development and Lyle S. Hallman Foundation.
Mancini noted open house lasted three days attracting more than 800 visitors eager explore brand-new facilities.
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Take a tour of the new St. John’s Kitchen
The updated St. John’s Kitchen contains a medical center, community dining area, and 44 transitional housing units. It’s based at 97 Victoria Street N. in downtown Kitchener and managed by members of The Working Centre, which has been assisting individuals facing unemployment and homelessness for decades. Joe Mancini opened up the doors of this facility for tours.
“[The old location] was always busy. It would open early in the morning; people would come for coffee and meals were served every day,” Mancini explained while noting that the new kitchen can serve up to 500 people daily.
“But over time, that facility became worn down; it needed renovations. So we decided to integrate housing into this project.”
The Working Centre states that total costs for this project reached $22 million with over $12 million funded through regional, federal, and provincial grants including support from Waterloo’s Rapid Housing Initiative as well as contributions from other organizations such as Perimeter Development and Lyle S. Hallman Foundation.
Local Leaders Tour Facility
Last week doors were opened so visitors could see what’s inside. Among those visiting were various local leaders like Region of Waterloo Chair Karen Redman who expressed appreciation for how accessible features stood out during her visit. “I love that the dining area is set up like a café on the main floor,” she remarked while admiring how easy it was to navigate throughout building. “There are accessible rooms along with bathrooms which I think is vital design element making everyone feel welcome because there’s often an idea that folks needing services from The Working Centre fit into one category.. [but] some have physical injuries.. heart issues or diabetes.” Aislinn Clancy represents Kitchener-Centre as MPP; she felt touring through felt life-changing. “[It’s] an environment where individuals will receive respect dignity along with care,” she stated. “Every layer within this structure seems thoughtfully designed.. It truly contributes towards solving issues.. Many folks carry misconceptions about who experiences homelessness but you’d be surprised-my office sees people living with disabilities seniors who’ve faced bad luck losing homes incomes.” Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic shared that his experience walking through brought him happiness. “This project has evolved into something deeply rooted compassion caring others helping our most vulnerable residents,” he said. “[This creates] larger community fostering sense belonging extending beyond mere physical walls.. A striking example illustrating outcomes possible when prioritizing people communities over buildings.”Mancini noted open house lasted three days attracting more than 800 visitors eager explore brand-new facilities.
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