May 12th, 2023

Grants, Community Support Transforms Storage Unit into Community Space

Thanks to engaged tenant leaders, help from partners and some much-needed funds, residents from Lebreton Flats have a new community space.

On May 12, community members cut the ribbon on the new space – which was converted from a storage unit.

The new community hub has a meeting and activity room, universal bathroom, and kitchenette. It will provide an opportunity for residents to connect with each other and provide valuable programming.

The renovation was made possible thanks to the advocacy of the area residents and the support of the Somerset West Community Health Centre, United Way Eastern Ontario, PCL Construction and investment from Ottawa Community Housing.

Some money for the renovation came from PCL Construction’s Hard Hat Heroes Fund. The grant gives residents direct input and influence in improving low-income neighbourhoods in Ottawa. In addition to the fund, the Community Development Framework, OCH, and a United Way East Ontario Women United Community Action Grant have contributed resources to animate the Lebreton Community Room with cultural and community events.

“This new hub will provide a much-needed space for the community to gather and build connections with each other. It will be managed by tenants for tenants – supporting a more inclusive community,” says Brian Gilligan, Chief Officer of Community and Tenant Support, OCH. “We are grateful to PCL Hard Hat Heroes for the funds and to the tenants and partners who saw the need and worked to make this community space a reality.”