A community conversation about the growing housing crisis is returning to downtown Oshawa, as local leaders and housing experts gather once again to discuss solutions for improving affordability across Canada.
The Affordable Housing Townhall Series in Oshawa will continue on March 9 at the Back Door Mission, located inside the former Simcoe Street United Church, a historic building that has stood in the city for nearly 160 years.
The series, titled “Fixing the Housing Crisis Part 2,” aims to address the challenges of delivering more affordable housing in Oshawa and across Canada during a time when many residents are struggling with rising housing costs.
The upcoming event will feature Dr. Carolyn Whitzman, a senior housing researcher at the University of Toronto’s School of Cities. She is also the author of the book Home Truths: Fixing Canada’s Housing Crisis, which many housing advocates consider an essential guide to understanding the country’s housing challenges and the policies needed to address them.
During the townhall session, Dr. Whitzman will take part in a discussion and question-and-answer session focused on practical solutions for improving housing affordability and strengthening housing policy.
The Affordable Housing Townhall Series first launched on February 23, beginning with a screening of the documentary “Thinking Beyond the Market: A Film About Genuinely Affordable Housing.”
Following the film, attendees participated in a discussion with Dr. Brian Doucet, an associate professor in the School of Planning at the University of Waterloo and the filmmaker behind the documentary.
Organizers say the first event drew more than 100 participants, highlighting strong interest from the community in addressing Oshawa’s housing affordability challenges.
The event is being co-presented by Oshawa Councillor Derek Giberson and the Back Door Mission, a local organization that provides support and outreach services to people experiencing homelessness and poverty in the region.
Councillor Giberson said the townhall discussions are intended to bring together residents, researchers, and community leaders who are concerned about the state of housing in Canada.
He noted that many people who work full-time jobs are still struggling to find homes that are affordable, safe, and suitable for their income levels.
Organizers say the discussions are open to anyone interested in learning more about housing solutions and contributing to conversations about improving the housing system.
The Affordable Housing Townhall Series in Oshawa will begin with doors opening at 6:30 p.m., followed by the presentation and screening at 7 p.m.
Admission is free, but attendees are encouraged to pre-register online to secure their spot.
