Kingston city council takes a creative approach to address homelessness

The scattered-site model represents a shift from large transitional housing complexes toward smaller, community-based options.

Kingston City Council has approved a $3.5 million pilot project to purchase and convert up to six single-family homes into supportive housing units. The program, endorsed in a 10–3 vote, is designed to provide stable, long-term housing for vulnerable residents who are currently living in shelters, hotels, or encampments.

The scattered-site model represents a shift from large transitional housing complexes toward smaller, community-based options. City officials say the approach will allow residents to remain housed while receiving wraparound supports such as case management, addictions and mental health services, and connections to local community programs.

The plan calls for the purchase of four homes within the current calendar year, with the first location scheduled to open in early 2026. An additional three properties could be acquired in 2026, subject to budget approval. Homes will be selected based on proximity to health care, pharmacies, libraries, community centres, grocery stores, parks, and public transit.

Kingston currently has more than 280 supportive housing units, with another 80 in development, but the demand remains high. More than 1,300 households are on the waiting list for affordable housing and more than 400 people are experiencing homelessness across the city. Officials expect the new initiative will help ease pressure on shelters and reduce the reliance on temporary accommodations.

The project will be funded from the city’s Social Housing Capital Reserve. Kingston is also seeking support from the provincial and federal governments to expand housing options. Earlier this summer, the province allocated more than $3 million to the city to help address homelessness in parks and public spaces.

At the same September 2 meeting, Council also approved a separate affordable housing project at 115 Kirkpatrick Street, a partnership with Habitat for Humanity that will see six stacked townhomes constructed beginning in 2026.

Together, the initiatives mark Kingston’s latest effort to create new pathways out of homelessness and address the growing demand for affordable housing across the community.

Story by Grant Deme