{alt}

Homelessness is a growing challenge for municipalities across Durham Region, Ontario, and Canada. It’s going to take time and a coordinated effort from all levels of government to address homelessness, housing, mental health, and addiction challenges. The Town of Ajax is committed to continuing our work with the local service manager, Durham Region and local community partners towards finding long-term solutions to the homelessness issue here in Ajax.

We work closely with the integral community entities that aid vulnerable populations in our Town and Region. Funding for these organizations is largely by provincial and regional governments, grant programs, donations and more. The Town of Ajax is an ally in ensuring these supports and resources are accessible by our community members.

Region of Durham
If you are looking for support in Durham Region or have questions and require assistance with navigating your path to care, visit the Region of Durham website or contact 905-668-7711 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. 7 days a week.
Community & Homelessness Supports in Ajax
Who to Call
Ajax Shelters
What We're Doing
Ajax Temporary Emergency Shelter

On November 8, 2022, Ajax Council approved the use of Town-owned space to temporarily shelter individuals experiencing homelessness in response to an urgent call from the Region of Durham. The shelter is fully funded by the Region and daily operations are managed by the Christian Faith Outreach Centre. Concerns regarding the shelter should be directed to Durham Region’s Social Services department. You can connect with them via the following form by clicking here.

Learn more about Council’s decision on temporary space for unsheltered.

Each month, the Town of Ajax will share information about the number of people receiving services at the emergency shelter. We hope that sharing this information will promote transparency.

 

Monthly Reports - 2024
Monthly Reports - 2023
 Monthly Reports - 2022
Ajax Locker Program
The Ajax Locker Program was launched in 2020 with funds from the Ajax Mayor’s Gala. Located on the south side of the Ajax Town Hall property on King’s Cres. at Exeter Rd. (facing what will be the new home of The Salvation Army Hope Ajax/Pickering/Uxbridge), they will be administered by The Salvation Army Hope Church and Community Services (“TSA Hope”) and maintained in partnership between the Town and TSA Hope. To learn more about the Ajax Locker Program call TSA Hope at (905) 427-7123, or visit locker project in support of TOA's unsheltered and vulnerable.
Town of Ajax Shower Program

We are dedicated to the well-being of all Ajax residents and providing a safe environment for those in need.

Town of Ajax Free Shower Program Flyer
Ajax Homelessness Task Force
In 2019, the Town of Ajax launched the Ajax Homelessness Task Force. The mission of the task force is to identify issues pertaining to homelessness in the Ajax area and advocate for solutions. In addition to Town staff and members of Council, the task force membership is made of representatives from local Non-Profits, service agencies, places of worship, and community members. To date, the Task Force has contributed to projects such as storage lockers for homeless individuals, out of the cold programs, and supporting local groups access funding. To find out more about the Ajax Homelessness Task Force, contact CDCD at 905-686-2661 or info@cdcd.org.
Ajax Mayor's Gala

Since it was launched by Mayor Shaun Collier in 2019, the Ajax Mayors Gala has raised more than $1 million for local charities and organizations. Of that, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been donated to resources for the unsheltered individuals in our community. Learn more about the Ajax Mayor's Gala at ajaxmayorsgala.com.
Safe Sharps Disposal
In Spring 2023, as a result of feedback from local businesses, the Town worked with the Region of Durham to support the installation of two sharps disposal bins in the Ajax Plaza. If you see sharps that have not been disposed of correctly, contact Ajax Operations and Environmental Services at 905-683-4550 or operations@ajax.ca.
Security and Debris Management
Security is a key priority. Ajax has Town-contracted secuirty patrols daily in the downtown core, including the Ajax Plaza, Pat Bayly Square, and downtown parks and green spaces, as well as increased securtiy presence at the Library Main Branch. 

Town staff also patrol the municipal property in the downtown and at the Ajax Plaza daily to clean up litter and debris.
Community Support Organizations
Regional
Local
Harm Reduction Resources

Community Support Events in Durham Region

  • The Gap Committee - Us and Them Documentary and Homelessness in Durham Website Launch 

    • Thursday, September 12, 2024 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
  • Community Building Day - Coming Together To End Homelessness in Ajax

    • Join the Ajax Homelessness Task Force for Community Building Day – an opportunity to come together to help end homelessness in Ajax!

    • Wednesday, September 18, 2024 4 – 6 p.m. Ajax Public Library (55 Harwood Avenue South)
      • Speakers
      • Info. booths
      • Refreshments & snacks
      • & more
      • Wednesday, September 18, 2024 4 – 6 p.m. Ajax Public Library (55 Harwood Avenue South)
  • Durham Rape Crisis Centre – 31st Annual Take Back the Night
    • Please join us on Thursday, September 19th at 6pm at 1 Mcgrigor St. in Oshawa as we celebrate the Durham Rape Crisis Centre’s 31st Annual Take Back The Night: We Are Louder Together!
    • Take Back The Night will feature survivor speakers sharing their personal and inspirational stories, as well as live entertainment performances for guests to enjoy. Pizza and refreshments will be provided to all guests while supplies last. Best of all, Take Back The Night is a FREE community event for all ages, with allies welcomed!
  • Community Walk to End Intimate Partner Violence
    • Register for this event
    • Saturday, September 21, 2024 10 a.m. at Durham Region Headquarters (605 Rossland Road East, Whitby ON)
    • Bethesda House, Safety Network Durham, Luke's Place, Victim Services Durham, YWCA Durham, WMRCC Durham, The Denise House, and Herizon House, are gearing up for a significant community event—the Community Walk To End Intimate Partner Violence. This event aims to make a powerful impact by bringing together community members to address and combat intimate partner violence (IPV).
    • This initiative is not just about walking; it's a collective effort to raise funds, advocate for change, support survivors, and educate the community about preventing IPV.
    • IPV affects individuals and families across all demographics, and these organizations are uniting to foster a safer and more supportive future for everyone. By joining forces, they hope to amplify their message and inspire action within the community. The walk symbolizes solidarity and determination to address this critical issue head-on.
    • Participants are encouraged to walk side by side, raising their voices against IPV and demonstrating their commitment to creating a more compassionate and understanding society. This event isn't just a momentary gathering; it's a step towards long-term change and empowerment.
  • Multi-Cultural Celebration

    • CDCD invites you to join in celebrating Welcoming Week by showcasing the services you provide for newcomers, long-time residents, unhoused neighbors and families who make up the multicultural tapestry of our region. Welcoming Week is an annual opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, places and values that make everyone feel welcome and included in their local community.

    • Saturday, September 21, 2024 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
    • CDCD Parking Lot (458 Fairall Street)
    • Please bring a tent for protection from the sun.

    • Please confirm your participation by September 18, 2024: sadaf.parweez@cdcd.org, 905 686 2661 extension 226

    • Register now
Community Support Feedback
The Town of Ajax welcomes your thoughts and feedback regarding homelessness and community safety. The Town has channels for you to report issues relating to streetlights, vandalism, and garbage.

Submit Community Support Feedback