Location: Oshawa, ON
Client: Refuge
Architect of Record: Invizij Architects Inc
Since 1999, The Refuge has been dedicated to supporting youth in Oshawa who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or living at street level. Annually, it serves around 500 youth, offering not just meals but a nurturing environment where they can find love, encouragement, safety, and a sense of belonging.
Recognizing an increasing need for housing for young adults aged 18 and over, The Refuge envisioned the new Refuge Centre. Following a feasibility study, the charity acquired a former Catholic school to transform it into 26 supportive housing units for youth experiencing homelessness.
Located at 357 Simcoe Street South, the two-storey building will feature studio apartments, including four accessible units, and a community center on the main floor. Residents will benefit from laundry facilities, shared common spaces, and storage lockers. Designed to be energy-efficient and accessible, the building will include an elevator and wide hallways to accommodate all residents.
Additionally, The Refuge plans to collaborate with other community organizations, inviting them to provide services on-site, creating a comprehensive support system in this new home for youth in need.
