Hamilton YMCA announces new men’s residence nearly one year after fire

The third floor of the men’s residence at the YMCA in Hamilton is set to welcome new clients after a fire caused extensive damage last year.

The July 22 blaze at the Hamilton-Burlington-Brantford ‘Y’ at 79 St. James St. left 174 men without a home.

While floors two, four and five reopened between August and October 2024, the third floor required extensive restoration.

An official ribbon cutting took place on Monday to recognize the City of Hamilton’s support in the rebuild. Hamilton mayor Andrea Horwath, city councillors and YMCA managers were present.

“We know that housing is health care. The reopening of the third floor is not just about restoring units – it’s about reimagining how we support people with complex needs,” said Manny Figueiredo, President and CEO of YMCA Hamilton-Burlington-Brantford.

Donations totally $400,000 from the Hamilton and area community also helped with the reconstruction.

The rooms are move-in ready and the YMCA will welcome new clients from July 2. The floor can provide transitional housing for up to 43 men.

The YMCA Hamilton location has provided transitional housing for 174 units since 1959.

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