Whitby is set to become the site of two major Habitat for Humanity projects, marking a significant milestone in the town’s effort to provide affordable housing for local families. The development of these projects will introduce approximately 40 new homes, with the construction of three-storey townhouse complexes on two municipally owned parcels of land. The projects are expected to be completed by 2028, offering much-needed housing in the growing community.
At a recent Whitby Committee of the Whole meeting, the town removed the holding symbol from two pieces of land, allowing them to be donated to Habitat for Humanity for the development. The Habitat for Humanity initiative will build homes for around 20 families at each location. The planned sites for the new development are on Gilbert and Dunlop Streets, between Peel and Reynolds Streets, and on Hickory Street, between Colborne Street East and Dunlop Street East.
Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy expressed her excitement over the project, saying, “We’re excited we’re moving forward with this. To have our first Habitat for Humanity project in Whitby and eventually have 40 units in our community is something we’re really proud of. It’s great to see this happening, and we hope to complete it sooner than later.”
Construction for these two townhouse complexes is scheduled to begin in fall 2026, with an estimated completion timeframe of 12 to 16 months. If all goes as planned, the homes could be ready for occupancy by late 2027 or early 2028. Whitby residents will be prioritized for the new homes, with Habitat for Humanity working closely with local agencies to ensure that families in need are the first to benefit from the development.
While Habitat for Humanity has already secured financing for the project’s construction, the organization is seeking additional support from the provincial government to help ease the financial burden on future homeowners. Flora Tang of Habitat for Humanity GTA explained that the organization is aiming to secure funding that will help offset mortgage strain for the families moving into the new homes.
In response to this need, Whitby Council has agreed to consider drafting a letter for the provincial pre-budget submissions, requesting financial support for the initiative. This request will be based on the funding needs expressed by Habitat for Humanity, and the town will continue to advocate for the project’s success.
Regional Councillor Chris Leahy also voiced his support for the initiative and inquired about the timeline for construction. According to planner Sydney DiTomasso, the project is on track to begin in fall 2026 and should be completed by early 2028.
The development of these new homes is an exciting step forward for Whitby as it works to address the growing demand for affordable housing. Mayor Roy is optimistic that the Habitat for Humanity projects will strengthen the community by providing a safe and affordable place for families to call home.
