University Health Network in Toronto is set to expand its successful permanent housing initiative for homeless individuals who frequently seek care at emergency departments. The network will replicate the Dunn House, originally established in a hospital-owned parking lot in Toronto’s west end.
Recent data reveals that residents at Dunn House, consisting of 48 individuals, significantly reduced their emergency room visits by 52% and witnessed a 79% decrease in their hospitalization periods within a year of moving in. Dr. Andrew Boozary, the director of UHN’s Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine, emphasized the importance of stable housing for patients battling chronic illnesses, mental health issues, and substance abuse.
The brainchild behind Dunn House, Dr. Boozary, highlighted the transformative impact of housing on residents’ lives, restoring hope and stability. The planned expansion will include the construction of 54 new apartments, with funding contributions from federal, provincial, and municipal governments.
The federal Build Canada Homes program will allocate $21 million for the project’s construction, while Ontario will commit $2.6 million annually for operational costs. The City of Toronto will invest $10 million and oversee the housing project’s management, providing residents with direct access to healthcare professionals.
Federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson advocated for replicating the Dunn House model nationwide to address the pressing issue of homelessness. The minister emphasized the need for streamlined processes to accelerate the implementation of similar projects across Canada.
The housing crisis in Ontario remains a significant challenge, with recent data indicating approximately 85,000 homeless individuals in the province, primarily residing in emergency shelters. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow praised the Dunn House supportive housing model for its effectiveness in breaking the cycle of homelessness and fostering hope among vulnerable populations.
The continuous rise in homelessness underscores the urgency of implementing innovative housing solutions to address the root causes of the issue and provide sustainable support for individuals in need.
[Image: Dr. Andrew Boozary, executive director of UHN’s Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine, and primary care doctor, is photographed at Dunn House, Canada’s first social medicine housing project, in Toronto on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. (Chris Young/The Canadian Press)]