Applications:

At this point in time, construction for the project is underway and we are not able to receive or process applications for admission into this residential program.  Please check back again early 2026.

Donations:

If you would like to donate to this project, please check out our DONATIONS PAGE.  Please be sure to designate your donations with a note in the subject line “The Loft” so that it is used towards this project.

Project Summary:

The Loft Transitional Housing Project is a compassionate initiative designed to provide safe, affordable, and supportive housing for families experiencing homelessness or housing instability in the Elmvale community. By offering temporary housing, coupled with essential services, The Loft aims to empower residents to rebuild their lives and achieve long-term housing stability.

Project Goals:

  1. Provide Safe and Affordable Housing: Offer temporary housing to a family in need.
  2. Offer Supportive Services: Provide access to essential services such as case management, counseling, job training, and life skills development.
  3. Foster Community Integration: Facilitate connections with local resources and community organizations to promote social inclusion.
  4. Achieve Long-Term Housing Stability: Assist residents in developing sustainable housing plans and securing permanent housing.

Project Budget:

Elmvale Community Church currently owns two properties in the town of Elmvale. 12 Queen is our multi-use space that is used for Sunday worship as well as a variety of midweek ministries. 9 Queen houses our free clothing store, Sharewear, our staff offices and some storage in the basement. The second floor of 9 Queen contains a recently vacated 3-bedroom apartment that is approximately 1200 square feet.

At this point our main funding request revolves around refurbishing the 3-bedroom apartment which needs some major attention and hasn’t been renovated in 20+ years. We have many willing and able-bodied people in our congregation and community that would be putting in the work to complete much of the renovation, but we do need funds to supply the materials.

Renovation Costs (one time cost): $103,000.00

  • Replace roofing membrane and insulation: $21,500.00 (Fundraised internally by Elmvale Community Church)
  • Exterior siding/refresh: $22,500.00
  • Replace flooring throughout apartment: $10,000.00 (Loan from Ontario Renovates)
  • Replace windows and doors $10,000.00 (Loan from Ontario Renovates)
  • Renovate kitchen and bathroom: $16,000.00
  • Construction, drywall repair and paint: $10,000.00 (Fundraised internally by Elmvale Community Church)
  • Furniture (kitchen set, living room set, 3 x bedroom sets): $10,000.00
  • Miscellaneous electrical & plumbing work: $5,000.00  (Fundraised internally by Elmvale Community Church).
  • Appliances (refrigerator, stove, microwave, range hood): $4,000.00

Facility Operational Costs (annual): $8,640.00

  • Maintenance and repairs: $5,000.00
  • Property tax: $1,240.00
  • Hydro: $1,200.00 (approximately)
  • Internet: $1,200.00 (approximately)
  • Heat, water, sewer (undertaken by Elmvale Community Church)

Resident Support Services:

  • Counseling services – Compass Counseling & Therapy
  • Job training and placement programs
  • Life skills workshops
  • Transportation assistance

Administrative Costs:

  • Office supplies – undertaken by ECC
  • Technology – undertaken by ECC
  • Marketing and outreach – undertaken by ECC
  • Legal fees – undertaken by ECC

Funding Request

We respectfully request funding to support the implementation and operation of The Loft Transitional Housing Project. This funding will be used to:

  • Renovation: Cover the cost of bringing the existing space up to a reasonable standard.
  • Maintain housing unit: Cover rent, utilities, and property taxes.
  • Offer comprehensive support services: Fund programs such as counseling, job training, and life skills development.
  • Provide essential resources: Assist residents with basic needs like food, clothing, and transportation.

Impact and Sustainability

The Loft Transitional Housing Project will have a significant positive impact on the Elmvale community by:

  • Reducing homelessness and housing instability
  • Improving the overall well-being of residents
  • Strengthening community bonds
  • Stimulating local economic growth

To ensure long-term sustainability, we will explore partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations. We will also implement strategies to maximize resource utilization and generate additional revenue through fundraising and volunteer efforts.

Conclusion

By investing in The Loft Transitional Housing Project, you are investing in the future of our community. Your generous support will help us provide hope, stability, and opportunity to those in need.

Thank you for your consideration.