The facility is planned to take over the space of the former YMCA building in Woodstock. Work is ongoing, and Oxford County will share updates as they develop.
Oxford County is moving ahead with plans for a new Homelessness Support Centre in Woodstock, announcing it is in the process of purchasing the former YMCA building at 808 Dundas Street.
County officials say the project marks a major step toward addressing homelessness in the community and supporting people struggling with housing insecurity.
The purchase is being supported through funding assistance from the City of Woodstock using money from Ontario’s Building Faster Fund. If finalized as expected in the coming weeks, the new facility is expected to open in early 2028.
The centre will offer emergency shelter services along with supports designed to help people transition off the streets, stabilize their lives, and connect with long-term housing options.
County representatives say the facility will work closely with the new HART Hub and Wellness Centre in Woodstock, a provincially funded program focused on mental health, addictions treatment, and other community supports.
Homelessness has remained one of the top concerns raised by residents across Oxford County in recent years, prompting council and staff to search for a suitable location for a support centre. Officials say several private and publicly listed properties were considered before selecting the Dundas Street site.
While the purchase of the former YMCA building is a significant milestone, county officials stress there is still plenty of work ahead. Community consultation will continue as plans for the facility’s operations and integration into the neighbourhood move forward.
“We know this is a community that cares,” the County said in its update, adding that residents want to see unhoused individuals receive the support they need to live healthy and stable lives.
County officials also noted that some information had been limited until now because real estate negotiations are protected under Ontario’s Municipal Act. However, council directed staff to continue informing and engaging the public throughout the process.
