Eva's Phoenix
In 1998 Somerville Construction, along with Eva’s Place and St. Christopher’s House coordinated a pre-apprentice program to enable 50 homeless youth to obtain trade skills. They gained these skills as they participated in the construction of the facility that would eventually house them.
This program was designed for the purpose of assisting homeless youth and youth at risk to gain “hard skill” training, a sense of worth, and to build their awareness that they have an abundance to offer their community.
The program consisted of two components, the first being a 5 week “in class” session conducted at the union training hall. The second component, providing that the first 5 weeks were completed successfully, was a 10 week “on site” work experience placement. The program and the construction were completed successfully in April of 2000.
We at Somerville Construction are overjoyed to know that most of the youths that participated in this program obtained occupancy in the new homes. It leaves us with great satisfaction to know that every youth involved left this experience knowing that they have the knowledge and the power to succeed and persevere in all of their life decisions.
"Eva's Phoenix is an award-winning transitional housing and training facility in the King and Strachan area of Toronto where 50 homeless youth, ages 16 to 24 may live for up to one year in townhouse-style units. What sets Eva's Phoenix apart is the innovative partnership-based employment training programs that we run to train and secure employment for homeless and at-risk youth in jobs that offer the potential for a long-term career. These programs are supported by a mentorship program and follow-up support once the youth leave the shelter to help them maintain their stability over the long term. Eva's Phoenix opened in 2000 and has worked with over 200 partner employers from the corporate, labour and community sectors. Eva's Phoenix recently received an award as a Best Practice in Affordable Housing from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, as well as being a previous recipient of the Peter J. Marshall Innovation Award from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Leonard Frost Award from the Ontario Association of Hostels."
Recipient - Ian Somerville
Award of Distinction for outstanding and innovative contributions in support
of Homeless Youth, June 2000
Recipient - Somerville Construction
Certificate of Appreciation, Circle of Support Associate
Recipient - City of Toronto 2000 Winner
Peter J. Marshall, Municipal Innovative Award, Homeless Youth Housing
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