At CHRA’s most recent 2SLGBTQIA Community of Practice meeting, we discussed how to build shelters that are welcoming to all within the community. The main takeaway is likely an obvious one: Housing is more than a place to sleep; it is where one finds safety, healing, belonging, and connection. This is especially true for members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities, who continue to face disproportionate rates of housing insecurity, homelessness and discrimination.

Across Canada, housing providers are exploring how community housing can better support 2SLGBTQI+ residents through inclusive policies, thoughtful design, and culturally safe approaches. It was great to have some of these providers share their experience with the community of practice.

Creating safe and inclusive spaces

Inclusive housing starts with people. Organizations emphasized that ongoing staff training is critical in ensuring residents feel welcomed and respected. Reviewing terminology, practices, and approaches on a regular basis helps staff create environments where queer, trans, and Two-Spirit residents can feel safe.

For Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities, cultural safety is equally important. Housing providers highlighted the value of land-based approaches, Indigenous leadership, and access to trusted Elders and cultural supports who have been appropriately vetted by their communities. Initiatives such as Edmonton 2 Spirit Society’s supportive housing project demonstrate how housing can centre culture, identity, and belonging.

 

Designing for wellbeing

Participants shared examples of how housing design can support healing and community. Some identified a need for recovery spaces for individuals undergoing gender-affirming surgery, while others highlighted the benefits of sensory-friendly environments. Both ideas are easily implemented and go a long way to making a space feel safe, welcoming, and like home.

At The Lily, a transitional housing program operated by Choices for Youth, a sensory room equipped with calming tools such as noise-cancelling headphones and a sensory swing has helped youth feel more comfortable and engaged. The space provides residents with somewhere to retreat, recharge, and simply be.

 

Reimagining community spaces

Many housing providers are also thinking about the loss of “third spaces”—those places outside of home and work where people can connect with others.

Whether through gardens, courtyards, community rooms, or informal gathering spaces, housing developments can help foster social connection for residents and the broader community. At the same time, participants emphasized that community engagement should be flexible and resident led. Some people may enjoy gardening or book clubs, while others may prefer not to participate in communal activities at all.

The goal is not to require connection, but to create opportunities for it.

 

Looking beyond the individual

Community of practice participants discussed the need for housing providers to consider a broader lens when designing programs and policies. Many shelters and supportive housing programs struggle to accommodate families, and pet restrictions can create barriers for people seeking housing.

For some individuals, pets are a critical source of companionship and support. Creating more pet-friendly housing options and advocating for policy changes can help remove barriers that keep people from accessing housing.

As Canada's housing sector continues to address affordability and homelessness challenges, these conversations remind us that housing is about more than units. By intentionally designing spaces that support safety, culture, healing, and connection, we can create communities where people not only have a place to live, but a place to belong.

Want to join the discussion? Our next 2SLGTBQ+ Community of Practice meeting is on July 27. We will discuss inclusive workplaces and how we can make sure organizational culture is safe for all.