Georgian Bay Home Share is an innovative program that aims to solve two pressing social issues in the southern Georgian Bay area: the lack of affordable housing for low to mid-wage earners, and the challenges faced by seniors living alone who wish to stay in their homes but struggle with loneliness.
The concept of home sharing has been successful in Europe and the US for many years, and is now gaining popularity in Canada, particularly in Ontario, as housing costs continue to rise. Georgian Bay Home Share is a unique initiative that matches home seekers with home providers, creating a mutually beneficial living arrangement.
In this win-win situation, home seekers benefit from reduced rent, while home providers gain the human contact. The shared household work and expenses, along with an exchange of services in lieu of some rent, provide both parties with a safety net.
Georgian Bay Home Share plays a crucial role in keeping people within their community and enabling seniors to age in place. By doing so, it reduces the pressure on the healthcare system and lessens the demand for more senior residences. In Ontario, 93% of seniors aged 65 and older prefer to live independently in a private household rather than an institution, as per the Ontario Report on Aging in Place 2017. However, issues like loneliness, affordability, and home maintenance often become concerns.
The process of matching home seekers and providers is thorough and confidential. It begins with an application, followed by an in-depth interview with the Georgian Bay Home Share team, reference and police checks, a home visit, and meetings between the home seeker and provider. The aim is to pair like-minded individuals, with numerous conversations held to ensure compatibility.
This non-profit organization charges no fees for its services and encourages applications as well as self-referrals through their website. Georgian Bay Home Share is currently seeking home providers to match with their list of home seekers.
Georgian Bay Home Share has received grants from the United Church of Canada Foundation and The Blue Mountains Village Association Foundation, along with donations from individuals. They offer charitable receipts and are actively trying to increase their visibility to attract more home providers.
Carol Clarke and Diana Dolmer, founders of this initiative, believe that Georgian Bay Home Share offers a practical solution to the housing crisis in Meaford and The Town of Blue Mountains area, while also helping seniors stay in their homes. The program represents a unique approach to addressing significant social issues, providing a model that could potentially be replicated in other communities facing similar challenges.
Contact them today if you are interested in the program or to donate, provide a home, or learn more.
