NEWS RELEASE
200 DOOR CAMPAIGN
*************************
Nine agencies have come together to make a holiday dream come true for vulnerable populations currently living in emergency housing or unsafe situations. Holding the keys to this success are landlords in York Region who are being asked to step up with a big heart and an open mind.
Eighty per cent of people who access emergency housing are one-time users of the system and then they manage to get back on their feet. “People using emergency housing did not intend on being there. They are women, children, youth, seniors, and families who just want a fair chance to rebuild their lives,” Lorris Herenda, Executive Director Yellow Brick House.
The 200 Doors Campaign aims to house 200 people in rental properties in York Region between now and March 31, 2021. Matching landlords and tenants, vacant units are filled with people who will thrive and remain housed in that home and community.
Covid-19 has made looking for, and showing, rental units harder. At no cost the Campaign helps landlords find renters, and tenants to find good housing options at market price- a win-win for everybody.
In a typical rental situation a landlord may not know the personal challenges being experienced by a tenant. In this situation, the landlord works with both community agencies and the tenant who are working together to ensure that supports are in place to address any challenges that may arise. This can include interim funding, mental health counselling, relationship management, or other needs. This support structure makes the ability to give someone a chance much easier.
“What people want is a place to call home and a key to their own door where they can stay healthy and feel secure. We really hope local landlords will respond to this opportunity and give some really special people another thing to believe in this holiday season,” said Herenda.
The 200 Door Campaign is an initiative of the Landlord Engagement Program comprised of Blue Door Support Services, Yellow Brick House, Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold, Inn from the Cold, 360°kids, Sandgate Women's Shelter of York Region, Canadian Mental Health Association York Region and South Simcoe, LOFT Community Services, and The Salvation Army. These agencies have collectively identified 200 people among those they service who are ready to live independently and to pay market rent. Some are living in emergency housing or unsafe situations and must find safe alternatives. Supporting the Landlord Engagement Program is United Way Greater Toronto and The Region of York. Landlords looking to learn more or considering partnering with this initiative should email [email protected].
*************************
