‘We are very disheartened’: Toronto tiny home builder fights to keep shelters for unhoused residents

The Homelessness Crisis in Toronto: A Call to Action

Toronto is grappling with a severe homelessness crisis, with shelters operating at maximum capacity and individuals left to brave the harsh winter conditions on the streets. Amidst this dire situation, Ryan Donais, founder of the non-profit organization Tiny Tiny Homes, has stepped in to provide a glimmer of hope. His initiative involves building small, heated shelters designed to offer temporary relief to those struggling with homelessness. These structures, while modest, are equipped with essential amenities like a bed, a table, a sink, and a furnace, aiming to provide a safer alternative to sleeping in tent encampments.

Despite the positive impact of these shelters, the City of Toronto has issued a cease-and-desist order, demanding the removal of the units currently placed in St. James Park. The city cites bylaws that prohibit structures in public parks and raises concerns about safety risks and the disruption of outreach efforts. However, Donais and his team are determined to continue their work, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate solutions to address the crisis. They argue that these shelters are not a permanent fix but a necessary stopgap measure to protect individuals from extreme cold and provide them with dignity and stability.

Community-Led Solutions: The Role of Tiny Tiny Homes

Tiny Tiny Homes was born out of a deep sense of empathy and a recognition of the systemic failures that have exacerbated the homelessness crisis. Donais, who has personally experienced hardship in the past, understands the transformative power of stable shelter. He believes that these small homes can serve as a stepping stone for individuals to rebuild their lives, providing them with a safe space to rest, recover, and regain their sense of dignity.

Each shelter is carefully designed to meet the basic needs of its occupants while also offering a sense of security and autonomy. For those who have nowhere else to turn, these structures represent more than just a place to sleep—they signify hope and a chance to break free from the cycle of homelessness. Donais acknowledges that these homes are not a solution to the broader housing crisis but stresses their importance in addressing the immediate needs of those on the streets.

The City’s Response: Balancing Bylaws and Compassion

The City of Toronto has faced criticism for its decision to shut down the shelters, with many arguing that the move prioritizes bureaucratic regulations over human lives. While the city maintains that the structures violate public park bylaws and pose potential safety risks, advocates like Coun. Alejandro Bravo argue that it is crucial to support community-led initiatives like Tiny Tiny Homes. Bravo emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the city and non-profits, highlighting the urgent need for creative solutions to the homelessness crisis.

The city has also expressed concerns that the shelters interfere with outreach efforts, potentially hindering the ability of social services to connect with individuals in need. However, Donais and his team are open to finding alternative locations for the shelters, provided they remain accessible to those who need them most. The city has agreed to meet with Donais to discuss possible solutions, offering a glimmer of hope for a more collaborative approach moving forward.

A Path Forward: Temporary Solutions and Permanent Change

While the future of Tiny Tiny Homes remains uncertain, Donais remains committed to his mission. He believes that stable shelter is the first step toward rebuilding a life, enabling individuals to address mental health challenges, secure employment, and eventually transition into permanent housing. The shelters are not a permanent solution, but they provide a critical lifeline for those who cannot wait for the city’s long-term plans to materialize.

The City of Toronto has announced plans to expand its shelter system and affordable housing programs, with a goal of building 20 new shelters by 2033. However, for those living on the streets, such timelines are too long. Donais and his team are calling for immediate action, urging the city to recognize the value of community-led initiatives and the importance of compassion in addressing this crisis.

The Broader Context: A National Emergency

The homelessness crisis in Toronto is part of a larger national emergency affecting communities across Canada. The scarcity of affordable housing, combined with rising inequality and mental health challenges, has left countless individuals without a safe place to call home. Donais’s story underscores the importance of empathy and grassroots activism in addressing this complex issue. By working together, the city and non-profits like Tiny Tiny Homes can create a more compassionate and sustainable response to homelessness.

For now, the future of Tiny Tiny Homes hangs in the balance, but Donais remains undeterred. His work is a testament to the power of community and the human spirit, reminding us that even in the face of systemic challenges, individual actions can make a profound difference. As the city and advocates continue to navigate this complex issue, one thing is clear: the need for action is urgent, and the lives of those on the streets depend on it.