Habitat for Humanity GTA Breaks Ground on New Affordable Housing Community in Whitby

Today, Habitat for Humanity GTA (Habitat GTA), alongside the Town of Whitby, Government of Canada, donors and volunteers, gathered to break ground for its first-ever affordable housing community in the heart of Downtown Whitby. Once completed, this development at the intersection of Hickory Street South and Dunlop Street East will provide more than 40 affordable homes, including 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units, for families, couples and individuals to experience the benefits of affordable homeownership.

“Today’s groundbreaking marks an important step forward for affordable homeownership in Whitby,” said Ene Underwood, CEO of Habitat for Humanity GTA. “These more than 40 homes will give local families the chance to build stability, put down roots, and invest in their future. We are grateful to our government partners who have made this project possible – and we are excited about engaging many, many donors, volunteers and community partners over these next two to three years to turn these two empty lots into a thriving new community!”

This stacked-townhome community was made possible through a donation of land from the Town of Whitby and support from the federal government through the Housing Accelerator Fund. Today, the Town of Whitby has announced an additional $25,000 funding commitment to the project through the Mayor’s Community Development Fund. These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to increasing the supply of affordable housing and accelerating the development of complete, inclusive communities. By working together across all levels of government, Habitat GTA is making homes possible for families.

“Projects like this help build stronger, more vibrant communities here in Whitby—and when our communities thrive, everyone benefits,” said Ryan Turnbull, Member of Parliament for Whitby. “Home ownership has become out of reach for too many. Today’s groundbreaking reflects what can be achieved when we work together to expand affordable housing opportunities for local families. Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home, and initiatives like this are helping make home ownership a reality for people in our community.”

This Habitat community supports the Town of Whitby’s Community Strategic Plan with action on increasing the supply of affordable housing and creating complete, inclusive neighbourhoods. By working with trusted housing partners, the Town of Whitby is taking meaningful action to help local families access quality, affordable homeownership.

“Today’s groundbreaking is an exciting milestone for Whitby and an important step forward in helping more families achieve the dream of homeownership,” said Elizabeth Roy, Mayor of the Town of Whitby. “This project reflects what can be achieved when different levels of government, community organizations, donors, and volunteers work together toward a shared goal. Affordable housing continues to be one of the most pressing challenges facing communities across Canada, and partnerships like this help create inclusive neighbourhoods where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We are proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity GTA on this transformational project and look forward to seeing this new community come to life in Downtown Whitby.”

While the project is gaining strong momentum, philanthropic support remains critical. Habitat GTA is working toward a fundraising goal of $7 million to complete the construction of this project. In response, the Whitby Housing Action Committee (WHAC), a volunteer-led group of local community leaders passionate about affordable housing, has stepped forward to help build community awareness, recruit volunteers, and raise the funds needed to make these homes a reality in Whitby.

“With the community’s support, we can help ensure this affordable housing project moves from momentum to reality, creating lasting impact for families who need it most,” said Lorraine Huinink, the Committee Chair of Corporate Engagement and Sponsorship for the Whitby Housing Action Committee. “If you believe in making affordable homeownership possible here in Whitby, we invite you to be part of it. Whether you can give, rally your network, or lend your time, your support helps move this project forward.”

These new affordable homes will offer families exceptional access to local amenities and transportation. Schools, parks, and shops are nearby, supporting convenience, connection, and quality of life.

Location highlights include:

• A five-minute drive to the Whitby GO Station, providing access across the Greater Toronto Area
• Close proximity to Highway 401, making commutes more manageable
• Just five minutes from Whitby’s scenic waterfront, offering year-round recreational opportunities
• Close proximity to Downtown Whitby shops and restaurants, offering numerous local businesses to enjoy

Habitat GTA partners with working families who earn steady incomes but are unable to purchase a home due to rising housing costs, high down payments, and unaffordable mortgages. Through Habitat’s unique affordable homeownership program, families purchase homes with geared‑to‑income mortgage payments, helping them build stability and long‑term financial strength.

To be among the first to learn when applications open for these homes, or to donate, volunteer, or join the WHAC please visit: habitatgta.ca/whitby.

About Habitat for Humanity GTA

Habitat for Humanity GTA brings people together to build homes, communities and possibilities. We are Greater Toronto’s most recognized provider and advocate of solutions that tackle our region’s housing crisis. Our vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live. We focus on creative solutions to address the affordable housing crisis in Toronto, Brampton, Caledon, York Region, and Durham Region. Since 1988, Habitat GTA has built 26 new communities, empowering more than 600 families. By 2030, we will have at least 2,000 affordable homes confirmed or underway, with homes completed by 2035. Learn more at habitatgta.ca