Shepherds of Good Hope - Richcraft Hope Centre
Funded through the Federal Government’s Rapid Housing Initiative, CSV Architects was engaged to design an eight-storey, 48-unit supportive and affordable housing development at 216 Murray Street in downtown Ottawa. This project aims to provide permanent housing for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness, with a focus on Indigenous women and others facing significant challenges. The building is strategically located in Ottawa’s Lowertown neighbourhood, close to transit, grocery stores, and social services, facilitating better access to essential resources for residents.
The first two floors of the residence house a new, state-of-the-art community kitchen and a low-barrier drop-in centre.The commercial kitchen is designed to serve meals to approximately 230 community members per meal, addressing food insecurity in the area. Two separate dining rooms are served by this common kitchen, promoting inclusivity and community engagement.
The building offers 24/7 on-site support services, including a lounge, on-site laundry, and access to computers and a quiet room, to help residents maintain their housing and work towards stability.
This initiative is part of Shepherds of Good Hope’s broader mission to provide supportive housing solutions in Ottawa, with the organization currently operating multiple residences across the city. The Richcraft Hope Centre at 216 Murray Street represents a significant step forward in addressing homelessness and providing dignified, permanent housing solutions for some of the city's most vulnerable populations.