Moss Park TV (Audio) - The George Street and Seaton House Revitalization
In today’s episode Dimitrije Martinovic interviews Aderonke Akande (a Manger with the City of Toronto’s Social Development, Finance and Administration Division) about the George Street Revitalization project.
Seaton House has operated as a men’s shelter since 1931 when it was located at 320 Seaton Street and was moved to 339 George Street in 1959. Throughout its history the facility has provided a range of services and supports for transient men looking for work, and to a population comprised of men who were experiencing chronic homelessness, along with health and mental issues, and substance abuse issues. Seaton House presently has the capacity for 484 beds, although at times this figure reached 700, and it is fair to say that Seaton House has struggled meet the increasingly complex needs of its clients.
According to the City’s plan, “The George Street Revitalization (GSR) will see the reinvention of the northernmost block of George Street and transform Seaton House men’s shelter into a world-class facility providing specialized care for vulnerable populations, including a long-term care home, a transitional living facility, an emergency shelter, affordable housing, and a community hub serving residents of both the site and the local neighbourhood.
The creation of the Community Hub component brings together multiple services under one roof that meets the needs of a specific community or neighbourhood. Considering the number and variety of services that the new centre will be offering, integrating these services will be essential to how people will be able to make the most of what the facility has to offer, and how different social service agencies can better support individuals in an integrated way. Having all those agencies located in one place, has the potential to dramatically improve the experience of clients as they work to resolve their health needs and as well as their long-term housing needs.
GSR will be the catalyst for a more safe and vibrant community for all in the heart of the historic Garden District in Moss Park.
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