THUNDER BAY – A transitional housing development for Indigenous youth on Junot Avenue is moving steadily toward completion, with doors expected to open by spring 2026.
“We're hopeful we’ll be ready to begin moving in participants by spring,” said Katie Bortolin, director of housing at the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre. Construction is scheduled to wrap up by March, after which the team will take time to furnish the space, train staff, and prepare for intake.
"This building has been a labour of love and commitment to responding to the needs in our community and the urgent need for youth housing." said Bortolin.
The 58-unit building is a partnership between the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre and the Métis Nation of Ontario, designed to support Indigenous youth aged 18 to 29 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
The program is delivered in two stages. Stage One, located on the first floor, includes 28 units for youth in immediate need. The second floor, or Stage Two, has 30 units for those ready for more independent living.
“The long-term goal is to have somebody come from Stage 1 going into Stage 2,” said Jackii Raynard, manager of the transitional housing program with the Métis Nation of Ontario. “But when the building opens, we’ll assess each person to determine where they best fit, we’re not waiting for Stage 1 participants to graduate before filling Stage 2.”
A standout feature of the building is its drum-shaped cultural room, which will act as a space for youth to connect with Elders and knowledge keepers.
“It’s going to be a space for all kinds of learning, life skills, community cooking, cultural teachings, and more,” Raynard said.
Programming will include employment training, education assistance, and life skills development — all tailored to individual needs. “Some might want to learn more about their culture, others about budgeting or general life skills,” she added. “We want to ensure they leave here ready to succeed.”
With construction progressing and plans in place, the Junot Avenue development is poised to become a vital resource, offering Indigenous youth in Thunder Bay not just shelter, but community, culture, and a clear path forward.
