Waterloo Region council voted on June 24, 2026, to take over A Better Tent City, a tiny-home community for people experiencing homelessness in Kitchener. The decision transitions the site from a temporary pandemic-era initiative to a permanent supportive housing project operated by the regional government.
What Happened
The vote came during a regional council meeting where members approved a staff recommendation to assume ownership and management of the 50-unit tiny-home village. The site, located on land owned by the Region of Waterloo, has been operated by the non-profit A Better Tent City since its opening in 2020. Under the new arrangement, the region will take over day-to-day operations, including case management, security, and maintenance, while continuing to partner with local social service agencies.
Details of the Transition
Regional staff presented a report outlining the costs and benefits of the takeover. The transition is expected to cost approximately $1.2 million annually for operational expenses, funded through existing homelessness prevention budgets. The region will also invest $500,000 in capital upgrades, including improved washroom facilities and a community kitchen. The site currently houses 50 residents in individual tiny homes, each with a bed, desk, and heating. Residents pay rent based on their income, capped at 30% of their monthly earnings.
“This is a step forward in our commitment to providing dignified housing for the most vulnerable,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman in a statement. “A Better Tent City has proven that tiny homes can be an effective bridge to permanent housing, and we are proud to make it a lasting part of our housing strategy.”
Impact on the Community
The takeover has been praised by advocates for the homeless, who have long called for more supportive housing options in the region. “This is a victory for the residents of A Better Tent City and for everyone who believes that housing is a human right,” said John Neufeld, founder of the organization. “The region’s commitment ensures that these 50 people will not be displaced and will continue to receive the support they need to stabilize their lives.”
According to the region’s 2025 homelessness count, approximately 1,200 people experience homelessness in Waterloo Region on any given night, with about 300 living unsheltered. The tiny-home community has housed over 150 individuals since its inception, with a 70% success rate in transitioning residents to permanent housing.
Some council members expressed concerns about the long-term financial sustainability of the project, but the majority voted in favor, citing the urgent need for affordable housing. The region plans to evaluate the program’s effectiveness after two years and consider expanding the model to other sites.
