Homelessness in Kingston reflects a growing crisis across Ontario, where tens of thousands wait for supportive housing. Traditional shelters often lack privacy, stability, and dignity. Evidence from Canadian projects shows sleeping cabin communities offer cost-effective, relationship-based transitional housing that fosters safety, autonomy, and pathways to permanent housing.

Our first major initiative was the sleeping cabin community pilot located in Kingston, Ontario’s Portsmouth Olympic Harbour and Centre 70 Arena. While the pilot has wound down, we are actively planning for Crossroads Village—the future permanent home for the cabin community. OLS continues to support alumni, develop prevention and diversion resources, and advocate for systemic change to housing policies. 

WHAT IS CROSSROADS VILLAGE?

Crossroads Village will be a sleeping cabin community located on the property of Crossroads United Church (690 Sir John A Boulevard) in Kingston, Ontario. Alongside 18 private sleeping cabins, residents will share a common building with washrooms, showers, meeting rooms, and office space. Residents will be supported by on-site staff 24/7.

STABILITY MATTERS

Crossroads Village offers stability - a crucial step toward permanent housing. Residents learn daily skills, adjust to new routines, and build community before moving on. Stable housing enables residents to access ID, healthcare, and social services more easily. 

Even after residents move out, OLS stays connected, offering ongoing support to help Alumni adjust to the responsibilities of permanent housing. We know housing is only meaningful if it lasts, so we walk alongside Alumni to ensure stability and success beyond the cabin community.

PRIVATE CABINS

The idea for simple sleeping cabins came from Belle Park encampment residents, who wanted homes where they could feel safe and start transitioning off the streets—modest by most standards, but far more adequate than a tent or the sidewalk. Each cabin includes a bed, fridge, dresser, and linens, residents are encourage to transform their initial cabin set up into a space which feels comfortable. Residents asked for simple, lockable spaces where they could feel that they and their belongings were safe. Privacy, security, and autonomy are key. 

SUPPORT & EXPECTATIONS

Residents set their own goals and manage daily life - cabin care, meals, and laundry - while staff provide support as needed, always centering on independence. Unlike institutional settings, residents shape their own rhythms, create community rules, and share in training opportunities.

STAFFING MODEL

Two staff are on site 24/7 for safety and proactive support. This approach has prevented overdose deaths and provides immediate emergency response. During the pilot, not only residents but also several staff received training and moved out of homelessness.

Our staff have lived experience with homelessness, addiction, or mental health challenges. Several staff have gone on to higher-paying jobs in the sector after training with OLS. 

WHAT WILL IT COST?

OLS aims to raise $ 500,000 annually to cover operating expenses. We must secure these funds for the next two years to bring the cabins out of storage and unlock the City of Kingston’s commitment of a further $500,000—funding that will go towards infrastructure costs and the common building. A grant from The Davies Foundation has covered the cost of the 18th cabin.

ANTICIPATED YEARLY BUDGET

While operating as a City of Kingston pilot project, OLS completed two financial cycles and is confident that the following operational budget will closely match their financial needs.

OPERATING EXPENSES (ANNUAL)

Administration & Office

$ 33,500

accounting & legal, bank fees, business licenses, insurance, office rent, telephone, internet & software, office supplies

Cabin Community Costs

$ 33,500

utilities, supplies, repairs, cleaning supplies, garbage disposal

Resident Supports

$ 19,000

food for special occasions, dental expenses, professional development supports

Staff Wages

$ 414,000

TOTAL EXPENSES

$ 500,000

REVENUE (ANNUAL)

Cabin Rents

$ 100,000

Dental Fund (donations)

$ 10,000

Bingo Income

$ 30,000

Grants & Donations 

$ 360,000

TOTAL REVENUE

$ 500,000

FUNDRAISING TIMELINE

We have until July 2026 to show the City of Kingston that the operation is viable. If that doesn’t happen then the city will attempt to sell the cabins off and recoup some funds.