Nearly a year after major fire, Hamilton downtown YMCA reopens third floor

The men’s residence on the third floor of Hamilton’s downtown YMCA is set to reopen Wednesday, nearly a year after a destructive fire.

An all new group of residents will be moving into the YMCA on James Street South, after the previous group found new housing.

It’s likely going to be a busy day of getting everyone settled into their new places.

The third floor had suffered extensive damage after a fire broke out in one of the units on July 22, 2024.

Over 170 men were displaced at the time and the organization was temporarily shut down.

The second, fourth and fifth floors were reopened a few months after the fire, but the third floor needed more work.

It is opening with a new transitional living program, with wraparound supports including mental health and addiction services for up to 43 men.

Over $400,000 were donated from the community to help with recovery costs.

WATCH MORE: Downtown Hamilton YMCA residents displaced by fire given timeline on return