“Housing with built-in health care saves lives, saves money, and gives people dignity. A project in south Parkdale cut emergency room visits by half and hospital stays by almost eighty percent. We need to expand this housing model across the country.”

“Mr. Speaker, housing with health care supports attached means more health, more dignified living and safer communities for all. In south Parkdale, it is happening. Dunn House, a project of the University Health Network, in partnership with Fred Victor, United Way Greater Toronto, West Neighbourhood House, 51 residents and their neighbours on Dunn Avenue and across south Parkdale, is delivering health care. Emergency room visits are down 52%, and hospital stays are down 79%. Behind these numbers are people like Jason Miles, whose powerful story and continued advocacy remind us that a safe home offers more than shelter. It offers dignity, stability and the opportunity to rebuild a life. I want to thank Dr. Kevin Smith, Dr. Andrew Boozary, LP Pavey and all the people at UHN and beyond whose advocacy and leadership have helped turn this vision into a reality. I also thank Build Canada Homes and the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure. What began with 51 homes in Parkdale is now growing into a model for hundreds more, including 83 units in south Parkdale. Supportive housing does not just save public dollars. It saves lives and brings dignity. I look forward to seeing this model, which began in Parkdale, continue to expand across the country.”