Working Together To Address Housing Affordability And Supply In Our Community

On June 24, Whitby Town Council unanimously supported the donation of two parcels of land to Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Toronto Area (Habitat GTA). Valued at over $5 million, Habitat will use this land to build approximately 40 affordable housing units on the Hickory Street South Site and on the Dunlop Street East site.  

Quotes

I am very pleased that Council supported the donation of this land to Habitat for Humanity GTA. The Town of Whitby has made it a priority to increase the amount of housing available in our community, including housing that is attainable and affordable. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity GTA play a crucial role in helping us achieve these goals. By supporting this initiative, we are not only creating more homes but also fostering a stronger, more inclusive Whitby where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

-       Elizabeth Roy, Mayor, Town of Whitby

We are thrilled to be embarking on our first ever project in Whitby, following four years of rapid growth of our work in Durham Region. We have been incredibly impressed by the spirit of partnership with the staff and council of the Town of Whitby, who have set the right tone and have been passionate about this project from the start. At a time when we’re facing a housing affordability crisis, we are making affordable homes possible, and by doing so, we empower many families to reach their full potential, enable multi-generational success, and create more equitable communities.

-       Ene Underwood, CEO, Habitat GTA 

Through the Housing Accelerator Fund, we are working closely with municipalities to enable real and impactful changes making it easier to get housing built in our communities. Today’s announcement highlights the successful partnership between the Federal Government, the Town of Whitby, and our non-profit partner, Habitat for Humanity, to support the construction of more affordable homes right here in Whitby. 

-       Ryan Turnbull, Member of Parliament for Whitby 

Families interested in partnering to become Habitat homeowners are strongly encouraged to sign up for email updates at Habitat’s website to be notified when homes are available. Habitat GTA makes homes possible by requiring no down payment and by providing affordable mortgages based on income; initially, partner families won’t spend more than 32% of their income on shelter costs. Families are asked to contribute 500 volunteer hours as part of a Habitat GTA partnership. 

Quick Facts

• In 2023, the Town of Whitby received an Expression of Interest from Habitat GTA in acquiring town-owned land at Dunlop Street and Hickory Street for the purpose of developing affordable housing. 

• Habitat GTA and the Town are committed to ensuring the units remain as affordable housing for at least 25 years. 

• Partnerships to address affordability and diversity of housing, as well as homelessness are key action items of the Whitby Community Strategic Plan. 

For media inquiries, contact:

Erin Mikaluk, Manager, Communications and Creative Services, Town of Whitby 
Phone: 289.314.6913; Email: mikaluke@whitby.ca