DATE
August 20, 2024
On July 22, 2024, MOD Developments, in partnership with Na-Me-Res, a not-for-profit dedicated to providing housing, skills training and cultural reconnection to Indigenous men experiencing homelessness in Toronto, opened the doors to a new residence at 218 Carlton Street, named Migize Pazaagwii Gamik, meaning Uplifting Place of the Bald Eagle.
In 2019, MOD acquired the property at 218 Carlton Street with a vision for an impactful community benefit. As part of our residential development project at 55 Charles Street East, we sought to address the critical need for affordable housing in Toronto by repurposing the site, which had previously been used as office space. The transformation of this historic 1877 Victorian mansion into a multi-unit residential building underscores our dedication to creating meaningful housing solutions.
The extensive renovation project has now been completed, and the property has been officially conveyed to the City of Toronto. Na-Me-Res, a renowned non-profit organization committed to supporting Indigenous men through housing, skills training, and cultural reconnection, will manage the property and oversee its operation.
“The transformation of 218 Carlton Street into affordable housing has been in progress for the past few years, and we’re proud to see this important project come to fruition,” said Gary Switzer, CEO of MOD Developments. “We believe in complete communities, which includes constructing homes that are accessible to all and addressing homelessness. The preservation of a heritage home and the creation of new affordable units stands as a testament to achieving this goal.”
The name Migize Pazaagwii Gamik, meaning “Uplifting Place of the Bald Eagle,” reflects the project’s deep cultural significance as this initiative is in response to the pressing issue of homelessness among Indigenous populations in Toronto.
“Now more than ever it is crucial that Indigenous people in Toronto have access to culturally appropriate supports to secure stable, safe and affordable housing. Our new Carlton Street affordable housing project marks the first of three builds we are developing to help address the crisis of Indigenous people facing and experiencing homelessness in this city and to provide them with the dignity they deserve,” said Steve Teekens, Executive Director, Na-Me-Res.
“Fifteen percent of people experiencing homelessness in Toronto are Indigenous – even though we only make up 0.5 percent of the city’s population. This imbalance is the source of our mission at Na-Me-Res, to help homeless Indigenous men rediscover their mino bimaadiziwin – living a good life in health,” added Teekens.
The opening ceremony for Migize Pazaagwii Gamik was attended by Mayor Olivia Chow and Councillor Chris Moise.
With nine units now occupied by Na-Me-Res clients transitioning to permanent housing, Migize Pazaagwii Gamik provides essential affordable and supportive rental housing. The residence also offers cultural reconnection and counselling services, further enhancing the support available to its tenants.
MOD Developments remains committed to fostering inclusive, supportive communities through our ongoing projects and collaborations. The opening of Migize Pazaagwii Gamik is a proud moment for us, representing both our dedication to addressing pressing housing needs and our commitment to creating positive, lasting impacts within the communities we serve.
For more updates on our projects and initiatives, stay tuned to our blog and follow us on social media. To read the formal press release, please see the link here: https://mailchi.mp/142443c85140/namereshousingproject?e=b2c3603c6c
