Scott Mission: Affordable housing to promote ‘homefulness’

For more than 80 years, Scott Mission has supported people experiencing homelessness and poverty in Toronto. To expand its services and advance its vision of “homefulness” the organization is redeveloping its long-standing Spadina Avenue site to introduce new affordable housing and a modern community service hub.

Partnering with Maple Reinders Constructors, Kasian is leading the design of a nine-storey facility with six levels of affordable housing above a multi-storey podium. The project will deliver 109 affordable units in a mix of sizes, with 25% designed for barrier-free accessibility. The new building also includes 85 shelter beds, meal programs, a food bank, counselling and life-skills spaces, and a community kitchen and garden.

Scott Mission previously operated from a three-storey building and adjacent Victorian home that could no longer accommodate expanding programs. Redevelopment offered the most effective way to increase capacity, improve accessibility, and make full use of the site’s central location near transit and essential services.

A ground-floor welcome centre anchors the new design, with flexible, multi-purpose spaces supporting a wide range of community needs, while a nearby temporary location is being renovated to maintain services during construction.

With future phases planned to enhance food distribution and programming across the city, the Spadina redevelopment establishes a modern foundation for Scott Mission’s expanding work. The project strengthens the organization’s ability to support individuals and families on their path from homelessness toward stability and independence.

 
“Kasian have been integral to the success of our project. They’ve seen us through all phases – feasibility study, master planning to rezoning and building – and been there every step of the way to guide us and help make our vision a reality.” – Bruce G Herzog, Chief Operating Officer, Scott Mission

“Redesigning the Mission’s downtown location to expand their continuum of care and provide much needed affordable housing in the City of Toronto has been a truly rewarding experience.” – James Rice, Principal