Raise Awareness and Recognition of the Housing and Living Conditions in the York Community

We want York University, the City of Toronto, and the Province of Ontario to know that there is a housing crisis that disproportionately increases risk and vulnerability to exploitation for low-income residents and students in the York Community.

We advocate to have these governments and the university's administration recognize that students at York are especially vulnerable due to their unique social location and limited ability to participate in the workforce.

We advocate to have these authorities move for action on the housing affordability and availability crisis as it impacts York University Heights and its residents.

Revise the Regulations Surrounding Multi-Tenant (Rooming) Housing and Student Housing

We want the City of Toronto to know that the solution to the housing crisis is complex, and requires interventions that are inclusive for all residents of all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, genders, ages and classes.

The best way to effectively solve a problem is to find a solution that benefits every individual involved. To ensure these benefits are evenly distributed and monitored, we want the government to review and redefine regulation surrounding multi-tenant housing in the City.

That's why we participate in public forums, organizing consultations, and give deputations at the municipal level. Currently, YCHA bring students experiences to the decision-making table regarding the City's proposed "City-Wide Framework for Multi-Tenant (Rooming) Houses in Toronto." We are fighting for multi-tenant housing to be permitted and/or legalized in the region of North York.

Promote Inclusivity, Accessibility, and Diversity in Housing in the York Community

YCHA is founded on the promise that we will do the best we can to provide anybody with housing help, resources and information. Our goal is to ensure that any individual seeking/living in a place in the York Community has access to their rights as tenants, and as landlords. The purpose of which is to foster a sense of security, and to assist, educate, and empower as many people as possible.

Tangible Improvements

We want all relevant authorities to know that many of the hardships and struggles faced by the students, workers, homeowners, and residents of the York Community are preventable.

These hardships can be mitigated and monitored with more help from the province, and from organizations like the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation or the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario. We want students and residents to be able to access both Municipal and Provincial Regulatory regimes governing housing in Ontario.

Overall, YCHA is advocating for safer, cleaner, more inclusive, more accommodating, and more accessible housing for all.