Every year, countless newcomers arrive in Canada, seeking a fresh start and a place to call home. However, their challenges, especially in terms of housing, are immense. This is where the vision of Just Homes, an initiative by Just Working Construction, comes into play. Addressing the pressing issue of housing for new immigrants in Canada, Just Homes is a beacon of hope and community for those in need.
The Origin of Just Homes
The story of Just Homes is not just about bricks and mortar but about addressing the very real challenges faced by newcomers to Canada. Jeff Van Gyssel, president of Just Working Construction and the visionary behind Just Homes, identified several key issues:
- The pressing need for employment opportunities for immigrants.
- The challenge of integrating into trades for those new to Canada.
- The glaring lack of affordable housing available to these new Canadians.
With housing issues reaching an all-time high, the vision for Just Homes was born. It was a response to a societal need, a call to action that couldn’t be ignored.
“We don’t exactly know what we’re going to do. The financial model isn’t quite there. But God keeps opening doors. We don’t know how He will provide, but we believe He will.”
Building with a Social Conscience
Unlike traditional construction companies, Just Working Construction operates as a social enterprise. Their motto? Credible construction with a social conscience. Their mission goes beyond just building homes; they aim to create affordable housing solutions, especially for newcomers. This is why Jeff co-founded LYNC, an initiative dedicated to creating affordable options for people.
The cost of construction has always been a challenge. With rising prices of materials and labour, building homes, especially affordable ones, is no small feat. But Just Working Construction is determined to find solutions, innovate, and make housing accessible.
The Journey So Far
The journey of Just Homes is a testament to perseverance, vision, and community support:
- 2021: The original Just Homes on Fairview, a Net Zero triplex, was established. This wasn’t just a house; it was a home that now houses 17 individuals from diverse backgrounds, including families from Colombia, Nigeria, and Venezuela. Each resident has a story and a dream, and Just Homes became the foundation for those dreams.
- Spring 2023: The second Just Homes was set up on Bleams. This house is unique because it’s where Jeff’s family and a single mother from Mexico reside. But the vision doesn’t stop there. Plans are underway to add five more apartments by Spring 2024, expanding the community and the dream.
- Fall 2023: A prospective place in Baden is in the pipeline with a unique rent-to-own package. This initiative aims to house 35 people across all three homes. The rent-to-own model is revolutionary, giving residents a place to stay and a path to homeownership.
Connecting with Just Homes
The demand for housing through Just Homes is immense. Jeff receives approximately five emails a week from individuals seeking housing. These emails are not just requests but stories of hope, dreams, and sometimes desperation.
To bridge the gap between demand and supply, Just Homes has partnered with organizations like the COMPASS Refugee Centre and Reception House. These partnerships are crucial in ensuring that as many newcomers as possible have a place to call home.
“We have a much longer list of people looking for housing and employment than I could ever provide. But every story, every request, fuels our passion to do more.”
Building a Community
Beyond just providing housing, Just Homes is about building a community. They have a unique “Good Neighbour” program where strong Christian couples live in each house, acting as advocates and friends to the newcomers, helping them integrate into Canadian society.
These “Good Neighbours” are the heart and soul of the community. They help newcomers navigate the challenges of a new country, from understanding the healthcare system to enrolling kids in school. They are there during the highs and lows, celebrating successes and offering support during challenges.
“People living here are in a new country. We can be advocates for them in the community, help them figure out life, school, doctors, and just be there for them. It’s about building relationships, understanding each other, and growing together.”
The Power of Community
Jeff’s personal journey, marked by periods of isolation and depression, made him resonate with the feelings of loneliness that many newcomers experience. Through volunteering at refugee centers and building genuine friendships, he realized the importance of community. His experiences with the Eritrean community, in particular, taught him the value of building intentional communities and the lessons they have to offer about community.
“Growing up, I wasn’t exposed to too many immigrants. But during my addictions, when I was lonely and depressed, I related to the feelings of isolation that many newcomers feel. Their stories, their resilience, and their dreams inspire me every day.”
Calling on the Community
The vision of Just Homes is grand, and they need the community’s support to make it a reality. From financial donations to volunteering time and resources, every bit helps. Whether it’s repainting a house in Baden, cleaning up Bleams with the help of 30 volunteers, or simply being there for a chat, every gesture counts.
“We need support from the community, a volunteer base, and think-tank for new ideas. We need people’s resources, their brains, their time. Together, we can make a difference.”
Going Forward
The journey of Just Homes is a testament to the power of community and the difference that one initiative can make. By providing housing and a sense of belonging to newcomers, they are not just building homes but are building futures.
Contact Jeff directly or visit the Just Working Construction website for those interested in supporting housing for new immigrants or learning more about Just Homes.