Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Canadian Helen Keller Centre (CHKC) has broke ground this week on a new affordable and accessible housing complex in the Etobicoke-Lakeshore neighbourhood, a major milestone for the deafblind and disabled communities in Toronto.
The new apartment building will provide 56 accessible units for individuals with deafblindness and other physical disabilities, offering much-needed homes and support services in an inclusive, barrier-free environment.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held Nov. 18 at 150 Eighth St.
“We are incredibly proud to be expanding the affordable housing that CHKC provides for deafblind consumers,” said Jennifer Robbins, CHKC’s Chief Executive Officer. “Every home in our new building at 150 Eighth Street will be accessible, and some will be fully or universally accessible. This ensures that people of all ages and abilities will have a home that meets their needs, now and in the future.”
The 56-unit complex, scheduled for completion in July 2025, will feature a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with vision and hearing loss, as well as people with other physical disabilities. There will also be a range of shared amenities including a rooftop garden, community rooms, and a 6,500-sq. ft. training facility.
“A safe and secure home is of vital importance for a better quality of life and strong communities,” said James Maloney, MP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore. “The 150 Eighth Street project will provide housing stability for people with disabilities from our community along with the support they require for their future success.”
The development is a collaboration between CHKC, the City of Toronto, and the federal government through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The project benefits from funding under the second round of the federal government’s Rapid Housing Initiative (RH2), designed to accelerate the creation of affordable housing for Canadians in need. Additionally, the City of Toronto has supported the project with waivers of development charges, planning and building fees, and ongoing property tax relief.
The apartment building’s design prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that individuals with a wide range of disabilities can live comfortably and with dignity. The project will also play a key role in reducing social isolation and improving the overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities, including those currently experiencing homelessness or living in unsafe conditions.
“As we begin this exciting project, we are also looking ahead to the future,” said Philip Corke, board chair of CHKC. “This new building will not only provide accessible housing but also create a supportive community where residents can connect, learn, and grow.”
The CHKC is continuing to raise funds to cover additional costs associated with the project. Generous donations have been made by the Kothari Group, Sunita and Vinod Vyas, and the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons, and CHKC aims to raise an additional $6 million to ensure the success and sustainability of the complex.