In a significant move to combat homelessness in Toronto, the Slaight Family Foundation has announced a generous donation of $25 million aimed at establishing an innovative system for addressing this pressing issue. Partnering with St. Michael’s Hospital and United Way Greater Toronto, the funding will support the creation of the Slaight Family Housing Lab, which is designed to employ an evidence-based methodology to transition individuals from the streets into supportive housing.
A Comprehensive Approach to Housing
Dr. Stephen Hwang, who heads the MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions at St. Michael’s Hospital, emphasised that the new initiative is grounded in extensive research advocating for a housing-first strategy. This model prioritises placing individuals in stable housing as a foundational step, which is complemented by comprehensive support services tailored to each person’s needs.
The housing lab will collaborate closely with the City of Toronto to pinpoint available supportive housing units. Concurrently, dedicated case management teams will engage with those experiencing homelessness, providing essential pre-move support such as securing identification and ensuring tax compliance. These steps are crucial for facilitating access to housing and other benefits.
In Toronto, the waitlist for social housing has soared past 100,000 individuals as of 2025. However, Dr. Hwang is optimistic about the programme’s potential to secure housing for approximately 300 people over the next five years, drawing on the MAP Centre’s successful previous partnerships with city officials.
Sustained Support Beyond Housing
Achieving housing stability is just the beginning. The initiative places a strong emphasis on ongoing support, with case management teams committed to following participants for several years. This long-term engagement will assist individuals in navigating various services, including healthcare, addiction treatment, and employment resources, thus promoting sustained independence.
Heather McDonald, the president and CEO of United Way Greater Toronto, reiterated the group’s commitment to a flexible approach, stating, “We will do whatever it takes to get people into housing.” The collaborative effort will involve various organisations, including Na-Me-Res, which supports Indigenous men, and Margaret’s Housing and Community Support Services, which assists women facing homelessness.
Addressing the Broader Crisis
The need for such initiatives is underscored by alarming statistics. A recent report from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario revealed that approximately 85,000 individuals were homeless in the province as of 2025, marking a 7.8 per cent increase from the previous year. This growing crisis highlights the urgency of innovative solutions like the Slaight Family Housing Lab.
Dr. Hwang pointed to the potential benefits of this programme for the healthcare system as well, noting that homeless individuals tend to utilise emergency services at significantly higher rates than the general population. He cited the success of Dunn House—an existing project designed for frequent users of emergency departments—demonstrating the efficacy of a housing-first approach.
A Call for Long-Term Solutions
Though the Slaight Family Foundation’s contribution is a welcome step towards alleviating chronic homelessness, Dr. Hwang insists that a broader commitment is essential. “If we’re going to invest more funds, we need to invest them in long-term solutions, not in short-term Band-Aids,” he stated, underscoring the importance of addressing both immediate needs and creating sustainable pathways to housing.
The foundation, established in 2008 by the late Allan Slaight, recognises the urgent call to action posed by Toronto’s homelessness crisis and is proud to support frontline efforts. The Slaight Family Housing Lab aims not only to make a difference locally but also to serve as a replicable model for other municipalities across Canada grappling with similar challenges.
Why it Matters
The establishment of the Slaight Family Housing Lab represents a pivotal moment in Toronto’s ongoing battle against homelessness. By adopting a comprehensive, evidence-based approach that prioritises both immediate relief and sustainable support, this initiative sets a precedent for how cities can effectively address one of society’s most pressing issues. As homelessness continues to escalate, efforts like these are crucial in ensuring that every Canadian has access to safe and stable housing.
