Transitional Housing - Alex's Place

In 2019, two District staff members, Shawn and Leanna Kerswell, and their family experienced a terrible tragedy when their son, Alex, died by suicide. He was a young man experiencing mental health issues, and their family could not access the help they needed. Leanna and Shawn (and their son Chris) want to ensure that Alex is never forgotten. 

Since this tragedy, staff at the District have wanted to do something to support the Kerswells to honour his memory. In that spirit, District Council passed a resolution brought forward by staff to name the Home For Good youth housing facility “Alex’s Place” in honour of Alex. The Kerswells were extremely touched by this proposal when it was announced at District Council on Monday, March 21, 2022. 

1. The goal of the program is to provide a safe space where programming and supports can be provided that will assist in the transition to stable and independent living. All residents must participate in programming and supports as part of their transition plan.
2. Applicants will have a review of their eligibility / fit to the program at “admission” and on-going review of their eligibility / fit to the program every 3 months thereafter.    
3. Applicants will be actively involved or willing to be involved with a support agency such as: Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Family Connexions, CAS, and Community Living.
4. The program would promote a mixture of youths, both age and gender.
5. Applicants must demonstrate a readiness to live in the Alex's Place environment and to work toward the goal of independent living.
6. Applicants with a history of violence, violent criminal activity, drug dealing, and / or significant addictions which are not under treatment are not eligible for the program. 

Alex's Place staff will help young people living in the building develop a plan and gain the skills and supports needed for a transition to stable and sustainable housing.

Staff will be available to youth for support during normal business hours (Monday to Friday).  There will be no on-site staffing after hours, weekends or holidays. 

1. Be willing to and prove able to live with existing youth residents in the home.
2. Agree not to place other residents at risk.
3. Engage with staff and show willingness to develop, accept responsibility and assistance, and actively participate in programs and supports.
4. Willing to pay rent, or arrange to have someone pay rent, or have someone that would pay rent on their behalf, such as employment, family services or other family members.
5. Be willing and able to adhere to the expectations and rules of the residence and engage with staff on an ongoing basis in reaching the goals set out in their Development Plan.  
6. Be actively involved in community support for the duration of their residency.
7. Have financial stability and ability to pay rent (i.e. employment, Ontario Works, Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), Family Connexions financial support, etc.). 
8. Be willing to sign disclosure agreements between all involved agencies. 

To apply for Alex's Place - Home for Good Transitional Youth Housing, you must complete a written application and a referral form. Download our application and our referral form at the following links:

Home for Good Referral Form

Home for Good Application Form

Home for Good Consent Form

Home for Good Information Sheet

For a paper copy application, please contact our Housing Team at 705-645-2412 ext. 4960

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Muskoka Housing Task Force Project Page

Muskoka's 10 Year Housing and Homelessness Plan