“There is a place in the world for me”
Although Edmond Place is the name for the bricks, boards and mortar at 194 Dowling Avenue that is being transformed into 29 self-contained units, Edmond place is really about people. It is about people like Edmond Yu who used to live in the building, once one of the largest rooming houses in Parkdale. It is about being labeled and fighting the stigma of those labels; it is also about people who believe in a better place, a better way to live. Development of Edmond place is underway, and tenants are scheduled to move in by the end of 2010. We imagine that Edmond Place will be the kind of home Edmond could have called his own.
The development of Edmond place has been guided by the following principles: Prudent use of public funds; Durable and sustainable design; Respect for community context; Design excellence; Meeting community needs; Safety and Security of the building and its tenants; Enhancing accessibility; A consultative process.
Project essentials: A derelict building is transformed into a renewed heritage property with 29 units of permanent, affordable, self-contained apartments through the Affordable Housing Program; an innovative and accessible model of housing; 50-year lease from the City of Toronto; partnership with Habitat Services; interior of units designed by committee of survivor/tenants who have experienced similar barriers; $6.5 million price tag; 30-year mortgage; PARC equity=$500,000; Project goal=$2.71 Million. What about our wildest dreams? – 3.7 Million to be mortgage free!
Ambassador Program: The required consultation process created an opportunity for PARC to use internal resources. The ambassadors are PARC members who received training in community engagement and proceeded to “take it to the streets!” to consult with neighbours about the development of Edmond Place. The Ambassador project has garnered positive attention in the community consultation and engagement field. The Ambassador Project received 2 year funding from the Metcalf Foundation to document and develop its unique method of community engagement.
If you would like to donate to the Edmond Place Project please click here. To learn more about the project please visit Edmond Place.
