At the heart of every thriving housing community are its tenants. They are not just residents; they are the driving force behind connection, support, and positive change. Keep reading to hear two inspiring stories that demonstrate how tenant leadership makes housing communities thrive.

Sowing seeds of change

Birchmount Community Action Council

Since 2013, the Birchmount Community Action Council (BCAC) has been transforming lives at 1021 Birchmount Road in West Scarborough, a Toronto Community Housing Corporation property. What began with a modest $1,000 grant has grown into an award-winning initiative, addressing food security, igniting youth engagement, and creating stronger connections.

BCAC’s projects are diverse as they are impactful. Imagine a thriving community garden, not only providing fresh food but also serving as an outdoor classroom. Picture a beekeeping initiative that empowers tenants while generating funds through the sale of their own honey. These are just a few examples of BCAC’s creativity. In partnership with FoodShare Toronto and Second Harvest, they also tackle food insecurity head-on.

One of their most impactful initiatives, Food Connects, transformed unused land into productive garden plots. These gardens provide fresh, affordable food and serve as the setting for healthy living workshops.

“We focus on critical issues like food security, economic development, and environmental awareness within our food system”, explains co-founder Laura Hammond. “Together we’ve reduced isolation, fostered a sense of belonging, and uplifted each other’s strengths”.

In 2024, BCAC contributions where recognized with the ONPHA Tenant Achievement Group Award, a well-deserved honor for their dedication and impact.

A pillar of support: Gaston Brisson

Options Housing, Ottawa

Sometimes, community transformation begins with one person deciding to make a difference. Since moving into Options Housing in 2019, Gaston Brisson has become an essential part of his housing community. His story is one of resilience, generosity, and dedication.

As a tenant liaison, Gaston plays a key role in ensuring tenant and building safety. From coordinating with support services to de-escalating tense situations and even being trained to administer Naloxone in emergencies, Gaston’s presence provides both reassurance and essential support.

Gaston’s love of cooking shines at community gatherings, where he helps prepare meals for holidays and barbeques. He also stepped up as an on-call custodian, maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of the buildings when regular staff aren’t available.

He built bridges between neighbours too, starting a bike club that encourages physical activity and connection, assembling bikes from recycled parts for fellow tenants, and forming lasting friendships that extend well beyond current residents.

“Over the last few years I’ve been faced with many obstacles and hardships, but with the support of the housing staff and CMHA, I have found the strength to face these challenges,” shares Gaston. “Together [with my fellow tenants], we’ve created a community that I’m proud of.”

Gaston’s journey shows how stable housing and the right support can help someone thrive, while lifting others up with them. In 2024, his remarkable contributions earned him the ONPHA Tenant Achievement Award.

Why tenant leadership matters

These stories highlight why tenant engagement matters. When tenants take active roles, resources stretch further, sustainability grows, and individuals flourish. While the physical infrastructure of housing – buildings, maintenance, affordability – is essential, the human element is also crucial. Tenants who lead become the true builders of the community.

The ONPHA Tenant Achievement Awards recognize the critical role tenants play in creating thriving communities. Celebrating individuals like Gaston and groups like the Birchmount Community Action Council reminds us that housing providers and tenants are partners in building vibrant, supportive communities.

As we move forward in addressing housing challenges across our communities, let’s remember that buildings house people, but people create homes. By celebrating and supporting tenant leadership, we strengthen the very foundation of community housing.

Learn more about the ONPHA Tenant Achievement Award and nominate an outstanding tenant at https://onpha.on.ca/onpha-awards/onpha-tenant-achievement-award/.

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