Ric: Lakeshore Lofts, Mississauga
Before moving into Lakeshore Lofts in Mississauga, Ric rented a windowless basement furnace room for $800 a month, with no way to cook. One day, at the Compass Food Bank & Outreach Centre (now our commercial tenant at Lakeshore Lofts), he met a woman applying for affordable housing. Although
Ric thought he’d never qualify, she encouraged him, saying, “If you don’t try, you’ll never find out!” A few months later, after attending an intake meeting, Ric got a call confirming an apartment was waiting for him at Lakeshore Lofts. His response was: “Praise the Lord!” Now, two years later, Ric loves having his own kitchen to cook his favorite meals — fish and vegetables —every day.
“It’s turned out to be a miracle for me. I never thought I could afford this when I was living in a furnace room. Now I’m paying [much less] for a real apartment. There’s a friendly atmosphere. You can go down to the sunroom and talk to people or join in on a card game. It’s like living in a village!”
Renee Game: 22 years of supporting wellness at the Wentworth Program, Hamilton
Renee Game has served with Indwell for 22 years. She first heard about Indwell from her father who served on the Board of Directors. After deciding to apply, she began working at the Wentworth Program in Hamilton right after graduating from Mohawk College.
Throughout her career, Renee has led many changes, including the Wentworth Program’s expansion and contributing to the development of Blossom Park Apartments in Woodstock. Reflecting on the past two decades, she notes that Indwell’s most significant transformation has been its growth. “We used to have our Christmas gathering with all the staff and tenants in one church hall,” she recalls. This would be challenging now, given our 1200+ tenants and 240+ staff members!
Renee describes the Wentworth Program as uniquely community-based, with a family atmosphere. The residents enjoy helping each other in their daily lives. Speaking about her colleagues, she says, “We have a really good supportive staff team that care about each other’s wellness. The best part of working at Indwell is the people.”
Recently, Renee was promoted to Program Supervisor at the Wentworth Program. Congratulations, Renee!
James: Prinzen Flats, Hamilton
James has lived with Indwell longer than most tenants, residing at Prinzen Flats since it was called Shamrock Apartments. Indwell took over the Robinson Street building in 2008.
James, whose walls are adorned with photographs from his friend Jack, who until recently also lived at Prinzen Flats, recalls that when Indwell began managing the building, “There was more communication and concern.” He appreciated the renovations to his kitchen and the prompt repairs, like fixing leaky faucets.
He’s always felt safe at Prinzen Flats and trusts the other tenants. We’re thrilled to provide permanent, well-maintained homes where people like James can feel secure and at home.
