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 now features studio apartments, including four accessible units, and a community center on the main floor. Residents benefit from laundry facilities, shared common spaces, and storage lockers. Designed to be energy-efficient and accessible, the building includes an elevator and wide hallways to accommodate all residents.
The vision for the centre is holistic, with on-site services and shared amenities that create a comprehensive support system for youth in need. In the past year alone, the facility supported over 575 individuals, recorded 14,000 visits, and served 27,000 meals.
On the exterior, a parapet etched with “Holy Cross” and other Christian symbols remains intact. These details, among others, prompted Heritage Oshawa to recommend designation to protect the site’s architectural and historical value.
