A Durham cabin community for the unhoused could be built in Ajax, Pickering, Whitby, Oshawa or Clarington by the end of 2026, following strong support from Durham Region council.
Council voted 28–0 at a Jan. 14 committee meeting to move forward with a report for a pilot project that would establish a 50-cabin transitional housing community. If approved, construction could begin later this year.
Each cabin would measure 106 square feet and provide a private, heated space for individuals transitioning from street homelessness toward permanent affordable housing. A central hub would include shared washrooms, showers, cooking facilities and common areas.
The project would be organized by Two Steps Home and operated by the Durham Region Non-Profit Housing Corporation. Residents would contribute housing fees through Ontario Works, ODSP or pension income, with food and support services included.
The estimated capital cost is $4 million to $4.5 million, with annual operating costs between $1.7 million and $2.2 million. A $1-million donation has already been secured, with remaining funds expected from government grants and fundraising.
Durham officials pointed to successful cabin communities in Peterborough, Waterloo and Kelowna, where similar projects have reduced emergency service calls and helped residents transition into permanent housing.
If successful, the pilot could lead to additional cabin communities across south Durham, with no more than one site per municipality.
