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What is this project about?
Naomi’s Family Resource Centre (NFRC) is building capital Second Stage Transitional Housing in the rural community of Winchester, in North Dundas, Ontario. We aim to address the critical need for affordable housing and services for survivors. We’d like to create more safe and affordable places for women and children to aid in the transition to a violence-free life. The current property will accommodate the development of the new Second Stage Transitional Housing project and is a
convenient location for residents to access support and programming from the shelter on the same property. Our Second Stage Transitional Housing project will address the immediate need for affordable housing and extend the continuum of housing for families fleeing violence with 24 units in a purpose build apartment style building, with mixed sizes including studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom units, prioritizing women and children fleeing violence. Residents will
have access to amenity spaces at the existing shelter on the same property, in the same building, including the common rooms, outdoor yard. Onsite support will also be provided by 24/7/365 shelter staff. Our goal is to develop within the current zoning while adhering to the gold standard for accessibility and best practices in eco-sustainable design. We are at the stage in the project where we need to hire a Project Management firm to help us move from Class D to Class B Project Stage.
Why is this project important to the community?
Guided by NFRC's Board of Directors, we are committed to helping more women rebuild their lives after fleeing violence with compassion and care through stability in affordable housing. Recognizing
there is no affordable housing in North Dundas for under 65 years old, this initiative will expand our operations to provide safe, longer-term housing for women and children, while supporting their journey toward independence. The project is designed to help residents build stronger
community connections and access vital resources such as employment, education, childcare, and healthcare. By offering housing stability, we empower women to take the next steps in their lives with confidence and support. Feedback from past and current residents has been overwhelmingly positive, with 100% expressing support for this project.
There is a high percentage (87%) of women who wanted to live in Winchester but couldn't because there was no affordable housing for under 65 years.
Target Completion Date
July 31, 2026
Location
607 St, Lawrence Street
Winchester
K0C 2K0