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Summer/Fall 2021
ousingMatters
bringing you what matters about your housing
Is COVID-19 getting Covid-19 Update
you down? Thank you to everyone who has been doing what
they can to keep themselves and others safe! We
Whether it’s the isolation, disrupted can all take the following steps to reduce the risk of
routines, daily inconvenience or the waves spreading COVID: Keep at least 6 feet apart from
of bad news, a lot of us are looking for others, wear a mask outside of your home, wash your
a break. That’s why we opened up our hands frequently, and stay home whenever possible.
weekly “VIRTUAL SENIORS CENTRE”!
It’s an opportunity to meet new people, Everyone is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine!
have fun conversations, learn new things, Getting the vaccine will help keep you and your
share wellness tips and more… and not loved ones safe.
a mask in sight because we are meeting Testing and Vaccine information
safely: online, over the internet! We even If you have symptoms or were exposed to COVID
enjoy interactive cooking demonstrations visit: https://www.hamilton.ca/public-health/
once a month, and we can deliver the covid-19 or call Public Health
ingredients for the dish right to your door, 905-974-9848.
along with the recipe so that you can take
part in a hands-on way. Seniors participate To get the vaccine and make your appointment:
in planning our sessions, we have a new visit www.covid-19.ontario.ca or call
Facebook group all to ourselves, and 1-888-999-6488. You can book your appointment
our participants connect with the wider through Hamilton’s Public Health Hotline:
community through workshops presented 905-974-9848 x 7.
by special guests: artists, musicians and *The phone lines are very busy. You may have to
other folks with interesting expertise that call back several times to get through*
they are happy to share. We laugh a lot, Stay safe everyone!
too!
The good news?
There are so many
ways to join the
COVID-19 Tenant
call: computer, Communications
laptop, tablet, CityHousing Hamilton has been posting
cell phone and COVID-19 related tenant communications
yes, even using a at each property since the start of the
regular land line. pandemic. Information is updated as the
situation evolves. Tenant communications
Hamilton seniors aged 55+ are invited to can be found by elevators and on bulletin
sign up just once, to be free to drop in any boards at your property. If you have any
time! Contact St Matthew’s House for more questions related to the information,
information and to register: please contact your Property Manager.
905-523-5546 or send us an email to
kburson@stmatthewshouse.ca
VACCINES EXPLAINED
Viruses like COVID-19
are our body’s enemies. A virus can
enter into
our bodies
and make us
very sick.
Vaccines
Vaccines teach your body how to spot
the enemy virus when it enters and to
attack it before it makes you sick.
Vaccines are safe and are a great way to
Learn
more: protect yourself against COVID-19.
hamilton.ca/COVIDvaccines
Page 2Page
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2 2021 | HousingMatters Newsletter
Message from CHH CEO Tom Hunter
It has certainly been a very different world for the concern for hundreds
past year and a half. I hope that with the nicer of tenants at the
weather and the prospect of less restrictions, beginning of the
you are feeling a sense of optimism and relief. I pandemic and staff
look forward to the day when I can spend time instantly responded
with family and friends, and not feel at risk of by arranging
“catching Covid”. an emergency
food bank and
There has been no area within CityHousing transitioning that work
Hamilton (CHH) not affected by the pandemic into a permanent food
and no question that the pandemic has shown program across many CHH
how important it is for people to have a home. buildings.
Throughout most of the pandemic, CHH has
continued to rent out units ensuring that as I truly hope that over the next few months we
many people as possible have a place to live. will be able to move more freely throughout our
We continue with our maintenance services and buildings and across the City. We all need to
building projects to ensure CHH buildings are reconnect and rekindle the many friendships
maintained and provide new housing for the and relationships that have suffered during
future. the pandemic. We will need to continue to be
supportive and understanding of each other as
Every effort has been made for our staff to we transition into the next chapter of our lives.
remain connected to the tenants. This has Keep following all the guidelines to stay safe and
not been easy, and staff adapted quickly to well. Take care of yourself and others.
new ways to reach out to tenants and provide
important supports. Food security was a Best, Tom
Messages from CHH Board Members
“I have been honoured to “I am proud of the work that
serve the residents of City CityHousing Hamilton does in
Housing Hamilton (CHH) Ward 6 and across the entire
for three terms (12 years). City. I would like to thank staff
In Ward 2, it continues to for their continued hard work
be tenant engagement that and commitment during this
guides my efforts as a CHH difficult time of Covid-19. As
Board member with a focus on a member of the Board of
ongoing capital investments in safety, security Directors, I will continue to work
and building fixes and replacements designed to hard on your behalf to ensure greater access to
improve quality of life.” safe, affordable housing for all Hamiltonians –
especially with my office’s specific emphasis on
Jason Farr, Housing for Seniors.”
Ward 2 Councillor
Councillor Tom Jackson,
Ward 6
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 3
CHH Staff Profile
Miranda Fowler, B.Arch.Sc.
Contract Administrator/
Specifications Writer
Asset Renewal Department members helping to renew the CityHousing
Hamilton building portfolio and is currently
What is asset renewal? Simply put, it is defined working on around ten (10) projects, many of
as the process to return the asset (building) which are expected to be multi-year. They range
to an “as-new” condition. This is the team from window and roof replacements, foundation
that is behind the hard work required to keep repairs, sanitary line replacement, nurse call
CityHousing Hamilton’s buildings up-to-date. system installation, and abatement.
When tenants think of repair or replacement Miranda attended Ryerson University in Toronto
building projects, they usually think first of the and has worked at three consulting firms for
interior finishes such as kitchen or bathrooms. the past 12 years in the private sector under
The most important projects may not be seen environmental consultants, engineers and
or noticed including roof replacements to keep architects. When Miranda is not working, she
us dry, water line or sanitary line replacement enjoys spending time with her two boys.
to keep us clean or fire and sprinkler systems,
generator replacements and asbestos removal to You may not see the members of the Asset
keep us safe and healthy. Renewal team every day, but they are here,
behind the scenes working hard to keep your
Miranda Fowler, a Contract Administrator building looking “as-new”.
started last June (2020). She is one of the staff
GOLDEN HEART FOOD CUPBOARD
We’d like to take a minute to introduce Margaret Bennett
and Grace Marcy. Margaret began the Golden Heart Food
Cupboard at 226 Rebecca in July of 2019. As a result of
her own anxiety experienced when travelling to food banks,
she recognized the need for something closer to home.
Margaret set out to make it happen!
Grace has ‘graciously’ been volunteering this past year and
shared that the Food Cupboard is a great way to fill her
time and get to know people. Currently, the Food Cupboard
feeds about 200 folks per month!
Margaret and Grace both believe that helping seniors with
nutritious meals is a worthy endeavor. Thank you, Margaret
and Grace, we are truly blessed by your kindness!
By Carey Lavigne-Support Services
Page 4Page
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2 2021 | HousingMatters Newsletter
Fortinos Supports
CHH Community Gardens
In early June, Brianna DiGiovanni and her CityHousing Hamilton and our
manager, Lucy Poston, from Fortinos in Eastgate Community Gardeners thank you
Square contacted CHH to see if we might like both individually, and Fortinos
a donation of vegetables for our community corporately, for your generous
gardens. donation of vegetable plants in
early June
CityHousing Hamilton has 19 community 2021.
gardens this year, involving over 200 gardeners.
By early June, our gardens are established
and beginning to flourish. CHH has never met
a gardener who couldn’t find room for extra
plants or put in an extra garden when generosity
happens along. That’s exactly what happened.
The majority of the plants went to Vanier
Towers, where 80% of tenants have come from
homelessness and new beds were developed
in response to your donation. Over 500 people
will benefit from the produce of the gardens this
year. Thanks to you, the Vanier Towers gardens
have never looked better.
Other plants went to seniors and family buildings
from the core to the mountain and all were well
received. They were beautiful plants.
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 5
Good Things Growing at Vanier Towers
It seems like every year the gardens get So many amazing people and
bigger and better at Vanier Towers. Last organizations have made the
year was the first time ever we ran out of gardens even better this year.
gardens so CityHousing Hamilton transferred HARPS Coordinator, Lisa Burton,
10 raised beds to an underused part of the sends a special thank you to
property, hoping to make space for new Neighbor 2 Neighbor, Sarah from
gardeners. This year we have a record 10 First Start Farm, CityHousing
new gardeners for a total of 30 gardeners and 4 Manager Kate Mannen, and
volunteers! HARPS took the lead on registering Fortinos. Through a Neighbour 2
gardeners and distributing seedlings, soil, and Neighbour grant the gardeners were able
equipment to all the gardeners. to buy much needed tools and Fortinos donated
10 flats of vegetables and herbs (which were
In addition to the community garden beds, shared across many CityHousing gardens). The
Wesley runs the First Start Farm – a hydroponic CHH Growers Grant allowed every gardener to
farm which grows fresh produce for tenants and receive their own hand tools – giving everyone
the First Start Café. You can find out more about an added sense of safety and security during
the farm online: https://wesley.ca/services/social- COVID.
enterprises/first-start-farm/.
Whether you’re a gardener or a tenant just
Wesley, HARPS, and tenant volunteers are spending time outside, the gardens are a mini
caring for communal garden beds and improving oasis.
spaces that need extra attention. Some
communal beds are becoming pollinator gardens Here’s to an amazing 2021 growing
and others are growing produce that will be season!
given out to tenants for free.
Page 6Page
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2 2021 | HousingMatters Newsletter
ANNUAL GARDEN Warm Weather Tips
CONTEST UPDATE for Pest Control
In the warm weather, pests become more
It is with a heavy
active. Here are some tips for reducing your
heart, that we must
chances of an infestation:
cancel CityHousing
Reduce areas of moisture within the
Hamilton’s 16th
home. Small pools of water or leaking
Annual Garden
pipes can provide enough water to
Contest for 2021. attract warm weather pests such as ants
and cockroaches.
Eliminate food sources by storing
food (including pet food) in air tight
containers.
With COVID-19 still present, we must
Maintain clean food preparation areas by
follow Public Health recommendation.
eliminating food residues that may attract
CHH has decided it is best for the health pests.
and safety of tenants and staff to cancel
Keep garbage bags and recyclables
our much-enjoyed contest.
sealed.
Reduce clutter that may provide a home
Please be reassured that we will be back
for pests.
next year, and we look forward to seeing
what you have created in the coming If you see pests, please do not attempt
to solve the problem on your own! The
year.
best chances of success will come from
calling our City Housing Pest Control
Stay healthy and happy gardening. department 905-546-2121. If you have
pests, we want to hear from you and
See you all next year! work together towards a pest free home.
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 7
not allowed as per City of Hamilton
Municipal Law Enforcement.
Grass Cutting and Law Maintenance: If you
are responsible for your own grass cutting,
please cut your grass on a regular basis. Also,
frequent lawn cutting will reduce the number of
Reminders weeds in your lawn and will keep insects, such
as ticks, under control. If CHH cuts your grass,
for Enjoying please make sure you pick up bikes and toys on
the Outdoors lawn cutting days to make it easier for our lawn
cutting crews.
At long last, the summer is here! It was a
cold spring, and with the COVID-19 Swimming Pools: You must have permission
pandemic, its refreshing to be able to enjoy from your Property Manager before you erect
the outdoors. a swimming pool. For safety reasons there are
by-laws that we must ensure everyone complies
While we want to take advantage of the nice with. If you have installed a pool and it does
weather, we must also remember that we need not comply with our Swimming Pool policy,
to be a respectful neighbour, this way the entire you will be told to remove it. Please don’t be
community can enjoy the outdoors! disappointed, ask first.
Trampolines: Most yards are not large enough
Here are some common issues that are for trampolines and there is potential risk for
frequently brought to our attention: a child to get injured. Please speak with your
Noise: Please remember that the music you Property Manager before installing any large play
enjoy may not appeal to your neighbours. structure and keep in mind that play structures
Regardless of the time of day, please keep cannot be erected in common areas. They can
the volume down and if enjoying the outdoors only be placed in your own backyard.
with families and friends, be mindful of social BBQ’s and Open Fires: BBQ’s are not
disturbances. permitted on balconies, and open air burning,
Pets: Please pick up after your pets regularly. including a fire pit, is not allowed on CHH
Children are running around and don’t want property.
to step in dog poop. Also, the smell can be
Standing water: To avoid mosquito breeding
unpleasant. Do not allow your pets to roam freely and possible West Nile infection be sure bird
on common areas. Keep pets on a leash and in baths, etc., are emptied and cleaned out
your rear yard. regularly.
Yards and Balconies: It is your responsibility
to keep front and back yards tidy. Please store
children’s toys in the backyard. Garbage and
recycle bins belong in the backyard. Please
make sure that your balconies are not full of
clutter. And, if you smoke, don’t throw your
butts over the balcony. Butt out in an ashtray or
can. Please ensure that the furniture you keep
outside is meant for the outdoors. Sofas or Please be a good neighbour and follow these
indoor furniture provides homes for pests and is rules; enjoy the summer months and be safe!
Page 8Page
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2 2021 | HousingMatters Newsletter
Air Conditioners
CityHousing Hamilton is committed to the maintenance and
safety of its properties and tenants. Air conditioners can
pose health and safety risks, such as units falling to the
ground, if not installed properly.
As a tenant, before you install an air conditioner you must
receive written consent from your Property Manager. Once
this consent has been received, the air conditioner must be
professionally installed by a contractor at your own cost.
All installed air conditioners must meet the following
specifications:
• Installed in the lower window position of a vertical sliding window(s)
• Does not exceed the electrical capacity of the unit – please check with
your Property Manager if you are unsure
• In compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• Installed without drilling holes or modifying the window frame or building
• With the use of window inserts supplied with the A/C unit or ¼ inch
plywood painted white
• Adequate sealing of the opening of the window
• Plug directly into an electrical outlet or use appliance
grade extension cord (12 gauge, 6 feet/2 metres)
• Portable air conditioners must be properly installed based on the
specifications of the manufacturer and well ventilated.
If you install an air conditioner without prior apartment will be inspected by the Operations
written permission from CityHousing Hamilton, Department. Air conditioners installed in
you will be required to remove it immediately townhouses or single homes will be inspected by
if it is not installed correctly. If there are any the Maintenance Department.
damages resulting from unauthorized or
incorrectly installed air conditioners you will CityHousing Hamilton encourages energy
be charged in accordance with the Service conservation and a shared responsibility with you
Chargebacks Policy. in reducing energy costs through conservation
initiatives. These include reducing peak time
Any air conditioning unit installed in a high-rise usage and replacing older units.
As of January 1, 2021, CityHousing Hamilton has
enacted a policy that states that all new tenants
who wish to install an air conditioning unit must
use a floor model unit and not a window shaker.
This new policy is meant to decrease the risks
associated with improperly installed window
shaker units. We encourage all tenants that
are replacing their current air conditioning units
to consider purchasing floor models instead of
window installed models.
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 9
Garbage and Waste 2. Break down cardboard.
Bin Guidelines Cardboard boxes must be broken down and
placed in the bin flattened. This will create more
for Townhouses room and prevent bins from overflowing.
3. Do not overfill the waste bins.
If a garbage bin is full or overflowing, please
close the lid for safety and put your garbage
into another waste bin. If all waste bins are full,
contact your Property Manager.
As a CityHousing Hamilton tenant, it is your
responsibility to dispose of garbage and
waste properly and safely. Particularly for
townhouse properties with dumpster style
garbage programs, we know many of the
4. Take out your garbage often.
dumpsters are overflowing and unsightly. We Put your garbage in the bin every day or
are working on issues like absent recycling every few days. Do not keep garbage in your
programs and illegal dumping on our backyard – you will attract rats, skunks and
properties but understanding how you can racoons! Waste collection happens several
help us change this is also key to fixing this times each week to avoid bins overflowing
issue. and to manage the amount of garbage on the
property.
Here’s what you need to know about 5. No bulk items or hazardous materials.
putting waste into the large bins: Bulk items can be picked up by the City of
Hamilton free of charge. Do not put bulk items
1. Use a garbage
into or beside the waste bins – you may be
bag.
charged with illegal dumping and be fined By-
All waste that goes
Law.
into the bin must
be in a garbage
bag. Do not throw DO NOT put these bulk and/or hazardous items in
in loose items – the waste bins or leave them in your backyard:
they are a safety • Large furniture like couches, dressers,
concern. mattresses, etc.
• TVs
Page 10 | sUMMER/FALL
Page 2 2021 | HousingMatters Newsletterour new
Exciting website
news is now
live!
CHH is excited to announce the launch of
our new website. You will notice the new
site is divided into four main sections for key
• Large appliances like fridges and stoves stakeholders: tenants, applicants/community,
the Board and industry partners/developers.
• Propane tanks
• Glass of any kind (including lightbulbs)
The homepage features the most common
user info/features; moving forward it will
To schedule a bulk item pick up, call
highlight important updates, news and
905-546-CITY (2489). Keep the bulk items
announcements. We also hope to use more
at your unit until pick-up. You can bring items
real photos to highlight our amazing staff team,
to the designated bulk area on your property tenants, buildings, services and community
after 7pm the day before your pick-up or partnerships.
before 7am on the morning of your pick-up.
Please take a moment to browse the new
You can also take large items to a City of website and share your feedback.
Hamilton Community Recycling Centre.
There is no cost to drop off things that will You can view it at
be recycled, but you have to pay to drop off www.cityhousinghamilton.com -
garbage. www.hamilton.ca/cityhousing-hamilton
Community Recycling Centres locations:
27 Olympic Drive, Dundas
460 Kenora Avenue, Hamilton
37 Kilbride Rd, Hamilton (mountain)
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm
(closed Sundays and Statutory holidays)
Cogeco Internet
By-Law Enforcement Officers visit our
properties regularly and respond to
& TV package
complaints or concerns about our waste bins. Provides CHH Tenants affordable Internet
If you have any questions, please call and TV offers. Epico program offers unlimited
internet that provides easy access to
905-523-8496 to talk to the Property
on-demand content.
Manager.
If you are interested call 1-877-263-8086
Sincerely, Promotion is subject to Cogeco
CityHousing Hamilton Management geographical area
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 11Doesn’t everyone
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Page 12 | sUMMER/FALL
Page 2 2021 | HousingMatters NewsletterPrevent Cooking Fires
from Happening to You
Cooking brings people together; it provides an outlet for creativity and
can be relaxing. But, did you know that unattended cooking is one of
the number one causes of residential house fires in the City Smoke
of Hamilton? Statistics show that in the past five years,
the majority of Hamilton Fire Department responses
alarms save
lives!
Tips
to CityHousing buildings have been due to cooking
related fires/incidents.
By following a few kitchen fire safety tips, you can
help to prevent these fires:
Practice
• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol safe cooking
don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling
measures
food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn
off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, Butt out!
remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to
remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils,
food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop. Plan your
If you have a small (grease) cooking fire and decide to fight the
escape
fire...
• On the stovetop, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the
pan and turning off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it is Test your
completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. smoke
alarms
If you have any doubt about fighting a small fire… monthly
• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help
contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from outside the home.
Hamilton
Smoking is another leading cause of fires in Hamilton. Smokers should Fire Department
regularly check their furniture for fallen cigarettes or embers, which can
smolder for hours before igniting into flames. Make sure to Fire Prevention
properly extinguish cigarettes and never leave lit cigarettes 55 King William Street
unattended. Dispose of cigarettes safely in a metal Hamilton, ON L8r 1A2
container. Never throw cigarettes over balconies, as www.hamilton.ca/fire
this poses a major fire risk.
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 13LED Retrofits Rapid Housing
Did you know that new LED light Initiative
bulbs use 85% less electricity
than old incandescent light
– First Place
bulbs? Replacing old inefficient In fall 2020, the Federal Government publicly
lighting with LED lighting is a announced an investment of $1 billion through
great way to save money on your electricity the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) to fund
bill and help reduce regional greenhouse gas affordable housing across Canada. The RHI
emissions. program provides up front capital to support
three types of projects: permanent modular
CityHousing Hamilton is replacing selected housing, conversion to residential units and
lighting at 48 apartment and townhouse rehabilitation of uninhabitable housing.
properties in 2021. The new, energy-efficient
LED lighting will result in the following benefits: All projects must be completed and occupied
• improved lighting levels resulting in better within one year. We immediately identified a
visibility, safety, and security; site and had an architect sketch out a concept
• durable lighting with long life expectancies plan for the commercial conversion of vacant
and less maintenance requirements; and space at First Place, 350 King Street East,
• reduced energy usage, electricity costs, and into residential units. The ambitious timelines
regional greenhouse gas emissions. of the RHI program meant that a number of
fast-tracking actions were required to make
Notices will be posted at the 48 affected the project a reality. These included: Council
properties with further details about the project, and CHH Board approvals for accelerated
including the affected areas of the properties. procurement, a Council Motion supporting the
use of a Ministerial Zoning Order (MZO) and
These LED lighting improvements are part provision of this order from the Province, as
of our strategy to reduce energy usage and well as the accelerated hiring of a project team.
greenhouse gas emissions, and are well aligned
with our mission: to provide affordable housing The City of Hamilton received $10.8 million
that is safe, well maintained, cost effective and under the RHI Major Cities Stream, and one
that supports the diverse needs of our many of the four projects selected by the Housing
communities. Services Division was the First Place project,
receiving $2.25 million.
BEFORE AFTER
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS:
• Repurpose under-utilized first floor
commercial space
• Create 15 new affordable units that draw from
the Access-to-Housing wait list
• Provide dedicated units for seniors including
two barrier-free suites
• Use cleverly designed ‘nesting units’ to
provide optimum livability in a compact space.
This unique new development project is
underway and should be completed and
occupied by November 2021.
Page 14 | sUMMER/FALL
Page 2 2021 | HousingMatters NewsletterWorking Together to Open the Doors!
The CityHousing Food Market opened its doors Fellowship Church took part in serving our
on July 7th at First Place and 191 Main/200 seniors at First Place. Both Larry and Dixie
Jackson offering seniors an array of fresh fruit remarked “they will be back to help again and
and vegetables, dairy, bread, and prepared will bring along other community members!”.
meals. Over 130 seniors enjoyed re-connecting As Larry packed up for the day, he commented
with staff and neighbors while making their food “I am honored I was able to serve our seniors
selection. today.”
The tenants were diligent in following the Public Finally, a huge “thank you” to the amazing
Health guidelines of social distancing, masking, teams at 191/200 Jackson, Zina and Carrie
hand sanitizing and waiting patiently until it (Recreation Department) and Carey, Tammi and
was their turn to browse the market. Although Sacha (CityHousing) at First Place. Together, we
the food market needs to adjust to our new all opened the doors to the CityHousing Food
environment, our tenants are totally supportive Markets!
and moving forward with us!
Brenda Silverthorne
This type of initiative is only possible when Community Development Coordinator
you are supported by an incredible team of
Community Partners and staff members. Our
Community Partners support our tenants by
providing: fresh fruit and vegetables from
Food For Life, scrumptious prepared meals by
Goodwill, fresh bread and pastries by Cobbs
Bread; and Wesley who continues to be the
backbone in dry goods, dairy and meat products.
Like a box of chocolates, it is different every time
you visit the Food Market!
Community members from the After Five
Tonic Rotary Club and the Hamilton Christian
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 15Important Information about your RENT
Starting July 1, 2021, your household income will be determined once per year
based on the tax information you file with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). We
will use this information to calculate your rent-geared-to-income (RGI) subsidy.
Current Process Process starting July 1, 2021
Rent is calculated annually and Rent is calculated annually
sometimes quarterly (once per year)
Changes in employment must be Changes in employment do not have to
reported be reported
Recalculations happen whenever You can request one recalculation each
there is a change to household year (only if your household income
income throughout the year decreases by at least 20%)
YOU MUST CONTINUE TO REPORT THE It’s Annual Renewal Time!
CHANGES BELOW WITHIN 30 DAYS. The Annual Renewal Package is mailed to all
If someone in your household: households once every year. You must complete
• Moves in or out, or if there is a new child and hand in your Annual Renewal paperwork by
• Starts or stops going to school full-time the date indicated.
• Starts or stops receiving OW or ODSP We will no longer be retroactively adjusting
benefits your rent for late submission of paperwork. If
• Has a change in their non-benefit income on you become ineligible for subsidy and your
their OW or ODSP benefits unit is charged the market rent amount you will
• Has their income taxes reassessed be responsible for any arrears accumulated.
If you have completed your paperwork, you will
In order to keep your RGI subsidy, you must receive your rent letter during the month before
provide a copy of your Notice of Assessment your renewal date - even if you submit paperwork
or Proof of Income Statement from CRA. This early.
applies to all tenants, regardless of income.
Submit your Annual Renewal Paperwork:
All tenants are encouraged to register for a My BY MAIL: CityHousing Hamilton: 55 Hess St S,
CRA Account with Revenue Canada. PO BOX 2500, Hamilton, ON L8N 4E5
BY EMAIL: Email your Tenant Administration
Every person in your household who is 18 years
Representative
of age or older MUST file their income tax every
IN PERSON: 181 Main St W, Hamilton, ON
year and provide their Notice of Assessment or
L8P 4S1. Main reception, 3rd Floor (during open
Proof of Income Statement from CRA.
hours) – access from exterior elevator
*People in your household who are 16 and 17 Drop box, Ground Floor (24/7) – slot located to
years of age do not have to file taxes if they are in the right of exterior elevator door
school full-time. They must provide proof of full-
If your building offers on-site hours/drop box
time school attendance.
this is also a convenient method of submitting
Help with Income Tax paperwork.
If you have not done your taxes, there is help!
If you do not know who your Tenant Administra-
call the Hamilton Tax Help at 365-366-1767 for
tion Representative is or if you have questions,
more information.
contact CHH Reception: 905-523-8496 ext. 7303
CHHReception@hamilton.ca
Page 16 | sUMMER/FALL 2021 | HousingMatters NewsletterN AT I O N A L O V E R D O S E R E S P O N S E S E R V I C E
N RS
1-888-688-6677
The National Overdose Response Service ( NORS )
is a convenient, and confidential 24/7 virtual safe
consumption hotline, available anywhere in Canada.
BRAVE for 24/7 Remote Overdose Monitoring anywhere in the World.
Get connected with an operator to
stay by your side and help during an
overdose.
https://Brave.coop
In collaboration with
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QR Scan:
M i n i s t r i e s
Visit our website for more information at www.NORS.ca © Copyright 2021 to NORS, LLC. All rights reserved.
“ This study was funded by a contribution from Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP). The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of Health Canada.”
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 17The Hamilton Literacy Council
Are you 19 or older?
Do You Need help with
Reading, Writing, Math?
iPad or Computer skills?
We offer:
For Home or for Work
Small Group classes
One to one tutoring
Free!
Bus tickets available We also offer training in:
Health Care Aide Prep Thank you to our funders:
Computer Job Search
Basics
Give us a call:
905-529-9907 The Hamilton Literacy Council 75 MacNab St. South
Page 18 | sUMMER/FALL 2021 | HousingMatters NewsletterRecipe Corner
ANTIPASTO SALAD
INGREDIENTS for the salad
2 large romaine hearts
chopped 1/2 lb. salami
8 oz. mozzarella balls
halved 1 c. quartered artichoke hearts
1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved
1 c. chopped pepperoncini
1/2 c. sliced olives Directions
In a large bowl toss lettuce, salami, mozzarella,
FOR THE RED WINE VINAIGRETTE artichokes, tomatoes and pepperoncini together.
1/2 c. extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 c. red wine vinegar Make the vinaigrette: In a jar fitted with a lid,
1 tsp. dijon mustard shake together olive oil, vinegar, mustard,
1/2 tsp. oregano oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes Kosher salt and pepper.
Freshly ground black pepper Dress salad with vinaigrette and serve.
POETS CORNER In Giving We Receive, BY MELVIN CORMIER
Faith brings hope to all believers in reaching laws God gave,
the other side, And we must practice the Faith we have to
And forever we’ll be in heaven, with the lord we bring to the grave!
will abide! For the heaven will receive us, as we have
Our rewards await us in heaven above, showed others the way,
somewhere in the sky, And the comfort we gave to the poor and sick!
And we all know that in due time, we all have Those that passed away!
to say good-bye. We have given hope to the hopeless and we
We must treasure the life we have, to live with have fed the poor,
God each day, And when we get to heaven above, we’ll be
For the seeds we plant as we go on will come given so much more.
back to us someday. If we share whatever we have, we must do it
We must use the patience God gave, we have from the heart,
no choice but to wait, And God will see what we do, and we
To die down here on earth below, in order to ‘ll be blessed when we part!
face our fate! We mustn’t ask back whatever we
God will be there when we grow old, to give us give to those that have a need,
boldness of mind! And whatever we do for others,
When we’re about to pass on, as so many then God will bless us
believers will find. indeed!
But we must try all we’ve got, not to break the AMEN
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 19Seniors’ Housing Futures Research Project:
Participant and Community Feedback Video
Michelle Wyndham-West examples are included with this article) and
(assistant professor, OCAD University and videos of housing-related experiences pre- and
adjunct professor, McMaster University) and during COVID-19. We found three themes in the
Jim Dunn participant information; a summary is below:
(professor, McMaster University)
Theme #1 - COVID-19, social isolation and
In the fall of 2019, we began a multi-year technology
research project with the goal of understanding
the housing experiences of low-income older • Pandemic made participants more socially
adults living in Hamilton, Ontario. We have been isolated
concerned about the lack of affordable housing • Participants need access to internet/wi-fi to
for residents as they age, particularly with the stay connected, but this can be costly
rapidly rising property values and rents that • Library closures due to COVID-19 equals loss
Hamilton has been experiencing over the last of free wi-fi
decade. Specifically, in this research, we seek • Free wi-fi in building common spaces puts
to identify the needs of community members to tenants at possible COVID-19 risk
inform policy solutions geared towards building
more affordable housing and maintaining the Theme #2 - Experiencing homelessness and
availability of this housing stock in the future. housing instability in old age
• Many assume aging means more security and
We recruited participants through CityHousing stability, but this is not always true
Hamilton and the Central Library Branch for • Increasing financial insecurity and an
fieldwork in downtown Hamilton (conducted by unstable housing market has led to periods
Michelle), which included one-on-one interviews of homelessness in older age for many
(either in person or over the phone due to participants
COVID-19 restrictions) and participants were • Homelessness/insecure housing (including
asked to take photos and videos and keep a renovictions) requires people to navigate new,
diary of their housing experiences on provided challenging systems (shelters, government
iPad and Samsung tablets. Thank you to Brenda assistance, and subsidized housing)
and Kelly for their assistance with recruitment by
allowing Michelle to visit buildings pre-COVID-19 Theme #3 - Social and cultural participation
and hold in-person information and sign-up
sessions for the research in the fall of 2019 and • Housing stability is important but social
early winter 2020. connectedness is also critical to participants
• Free programs and opportunities to socialize
A few participants completed the study pre- in housing (mobile medical services, craft
COVID-19, but many had their tablets during clubs, exercise classes, etc.) are important to
the lockdowns. The tablets were retrieved in participants
September, outside and at a safe distance. We • Participants took pride in organizing and
spent just over six months combing through participating in the community
the interview transcripts, and the material given • For example, creating local food banks and
back to us on the tablets. The material we had working to introduce residents to them
to analyze included daily diaries, photos (a few
Page 20 | sUMMER/FALL 2021 | HousingMatters NewsletterNeed some help
keeping your kitchen
stocked?
Due to COVID-19 we have not been able to Since the spring of 2020,
hold feedback sessions in person. Instead, we keeping a steady supply of
have created a participant/community feedback healthy groceries in your home
video which goes over the three themes in hasn’t always been easy.
more detail. The video can be viewed at: https://
crunch.mcmaster.ca/news-events/seniors- We can help!
housing-futures-research-study-1. We would
appreciate your thoughts on our analysis of St Matthew’s House offers qualified individuals
participant information, including: and families up to three days of fresh, healthy
food, to help your grocery dollars go further. This
• What do you think we got right? service is available to Hamiltonians aged 55+
• What do you think we missed? who live in downtown Hamilton, in Wards 1
• What is the most important thing for us to tell through 5. It’s easy to make healthy, tasty meals
the city about aging and housing? with the variety of fresh foods on offer, everything
from pantry staples to fresh produce, dairy and
• What do you think about using technology even prepared items, to make you feel good and
(such as social media and tablets) in research well-fed! We can also connect you with other
projects with older adults? supports and services offered by our agency, as
well as others in your community.
Please contact Michelle at
wyndhamm@mcmaster.ca to give your Getting your groceries is easy, and the best
feedback. We look forward to hearing from part is that your food will be delivered right to
you! your door by one of our friendly Seniors Support
Workers. Contact St Matthew’s House for
more information and to register for your free
emergency food delivery! Call us at:
905-523-5546 Ext. 240 or send us an email,
to sdoherty@stmatthewshouse.ca
In-Home Vaccines-
Seniors 60 and over
CityHousing and
Hamilton Community Paramedics
are working together to provide in-home
vaccines to those tenants who are:
Unable to leave their apartment due
to mobility issues and/or other
medical issues
Please call Public Health Hotline:
905-974-9848 option 7
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 21Students connect with local
seniors during the pandemic
through pen pal program
McMaster charity Student Open Circles started Many SOC programs had to
‘Seniors Connect’ program during the pandemic be put on pause during
to help alleviate isolation among older adults in the pandemic, but physical
the community. distancing also brought
about the opportunity to
launch new virtual programs,
“When I opened such as Seniors Connect.
up my letter,
Over the 2020-21 academic year, the program
it just made
engaged 100 students supporting seniors at
my day. He CityHousing Hamilton and Shalom Village by
wrote the most writing over 2,000 letters and producing a series
beautiful letter of wellness videos for closed circuit TV.
and it sounded Brenda Silverthorne, Community Development
like he was Coordinator at CItyHousing Hamilton says
talking to me her team has received glowing feedback from
about what I’m seniors who have received letters or watched the
going through.” video series.
“This partnership was key to addressing
social isolation felt by our seniors during these
uncertain times,” says Silverthorne. “The
This is one of the many thank-you messages students were so creative in their letters and
from older adults across Hamilton who received there was an amazing range of topics for the
handwritten letters from McMaster student video series, from brain teasers to art activities.”
volunteers over the past year.
Radha Sharma, SOC volunteer and third year life
“During the pandemic we increased our capacity sciences student, says the program encouraged
by 50 per cent to address the critical needs in students to tap into their creativity and rediscover
the community at this time,” says Jeff Druery, old passions such as creating artwork alongside
community life facilitator at Student Open letters to be mailed or figuring out video editing
Circles (SOC). “After much consultation with software for the TV segments.
local social service agencies in spring 2020,
we identified isolation among seniors as a key “One of the biggest themes in the wellness
need.” videos is the ability to transfer learning. We
were able to create videos that bridged this
This was the beginning of Seniors Connect, intergenerational gap,” says Sharma. “It was so
one of the volunteer programs coordinated by nice to hear that the seniors were enjoying the
Druery and his team at SOC, a campus-based content we were making. It shows that there’s no
charity that provides students with leadership timeframe for learning something new, whether
and personal development opportunities through it’s drawing, a trivia game or cooking a new
volunteer work. SOC engages more than 300 dish.”
students each year as weekly volunteers, giving
more than 10,000 hours.
Page 22 | sUMMER/FALL 2021 | HousingMatters NewsletterYour Tenant Support Team Your Property
The Tenant Support Services Team is changing! By mid- Managers
September 2021, CHH will have a Tenant Support Team Dave Chambers
of 10 TSWs and a TSW Lead. We currently have 7 in total. (905) 523-8496 x 7897
They will become the point of contact at your building for dave.chambers@hamilton.ca
tenant groups, room bookings, tax clinics and CHH news.
They will also help support community gardens. Jacquie Rosettani
(905) 523-8496 x 7553
TSWs will continue to provide you with support, education, jacqueline.rosettani@hamilton.ca
referrals and guidance to help resolve issues that may put Tobi Scott
your tenancy at risk. TSWs can help assess your needs and (905) 523-8496 x 7283
connect you with the right services to support you. They tobi.scott@hamilton.ca
can be an advisor, a listener, an advocate, or just someone
to talk to when you don’t know who to call! Some of the Rayka Todorva
issues TSWs can help with rent arrears, completing forms, (905) 523-8496 x 7610
addressing clutter or housekeeping concerns, education and rayka.todorova@hamilton.ca
referrals around various community services. Mike Brown
(905) 523-8496 x 3079
Brenda Silverthorne, Partnership Development Advisor michael.brown@hamilton.ca
working with our partners to develop and implement
support services. Kelly Coxson remains our Project Mike King
Manager at Vanier Towers. Gillian McLaughlin is our (905) 523-8496 x 3573
TSW Lead. michael.king@hamilton.ca
Melissa Sheilds
Our Team can be reached by calling 905-523-8496 plus (905) 523-8496 x 7573
the extension below & email: melissa.shields@hamilton.ca
Carlie Weeks x 2982 Kelly Coxson x 5175 Tammi Fougere
carlie.weeks@hamilton.ca kelly.coxson@hamilton.ca (905) 523-8496 x 7529
tammi.foguere@hamilton.ca
Marilyn Walker x 7357 Kim Moore x 6679
marilyn.walker@hamilton.ca kim.moore@hamilton.ca Shauna Wheeler
(905) 523-8496 x 2939
Denise Zawislak x 7711 Laura Seaton x TBD shauna.wheeler@hamilton.ca
denise.zawislak@hamilton.ca
laura.seaton@hamilton.ca
Marcus Bowen
Gabriella Besermenji x 5173 (905) 523-8496 x 7606
gabriella.besermenji@hamilton.ca marcus.bowen@hamilton.ca
Brenda Silverthorne x 6049 Lisa Marie Henderson
brenda.silverthorne@hamilton.ca (905) 523-8496 x 7625
lisamarie.henderson@hamilton.ca
Gillian McLaughlin x 7813
gillian.mclaughlin@hamilton.ca Mary Tullo
(905) 523-8496 x 6345
Sally Anderson x 7293
mary.tullo@hamilton.ca
sally.anderson@hamilton.ca
Krystina Beriault
Tina Santarelli x 2355 (905) 523-8496 x 4995
tina.santarelli@hamilton.ca krystina.beriault@hamilton.ca
HousingMatters Newsletter | 2021 sUMMER/FALL | Page 23WHO TO CALL
The goal of the Housing Matters newsletter CityHousing Hamilton
is to keep you up to date on matters like Main Number
policies, projects, and about the activities and
accomplishments of tenants across the city. The 905-523-8496
newsletter is distributed to over 7,000 homes Reception Press “0” or ext. 7303
three times a year. Housing Matters is prepared Or CHHReception@hamilton.ca
and written by CityHousing tenants, for tenants,
meaning we need YOU! Maintenance ext: 6200
Are you any of the following: Pest Control ext. 2121
Interested in improving your writing skills? Regular Business hours are
A High School student wanting to complete Monday to Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm.
their 40 hours of community service? To reach someone outside of these
Looking to gain experience in journalism? hours call the number above,
Have a poem or other piece of creative 905-523-8496.
writing to share?
Know of a neighbor, staff person, or Other Important Numbers
community program you would like to see 911 This will connect you to Emergency
highlighted? Medical Services, Hamilton Police and Fire
Services.
If you said yes to any of the above, contact Kim 905-546-2789 (CITY)
Moore by email or phone to learn more about Call the City of Hamilton for information on all
how you can volunteer with Housing Matters. City services.
211 This will assist you to find social services
Kim Moore, Tenant Support Worker
in Ontario.
kim.moore@hamilton.ca | 905-523-8496 x6679
Tenant Insurance AGM
Did you know that all CityHousing Update
Hamilton tenants are required to Unfortunately,
have contents and liability insurance? CityHousing Hamilton’s
CityHousing Hamilton has insurance that Annual General
covers the physical structure of your home Meetings (AGMs)
or building, but not your contents. have been cancelled
for 2021 due to the
If you don’t already have insurance, pandemic. To ensure
contact an insurance professional who we keep you informed,
can assist you with getting the best rates information specific to
and coverage. You can also contact your your property will be
Property Manager or Tenant Support updated when changes
Worker for information on CHH tenant occur. We hope to see
insurance. you again next year.You can also read
