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Supportive Housing is Critical Infrastructure: Reflections on the Wellesley Institute’s Latest Policy Brief

  • jasmine3871
  • May 23
  • 2 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

“We cannot afford not to end homelessness.”

That’s the key message from the Wellesley Institute’s March 2025 Policy Brief—a data-driven look at the role supportive housing plays in building healthier, more resilient communities.


Toronto - May 23, 2025

The brief highlights that supportive housing:


-Reduces emergency healthcare system strain

-Lowers rates of crime and recidivism

-Supports labour market reintegration

-Delivers a return of $21.72 in public savings for every $10 invested


At Spotlight Development Inc., we recognize the value of supportive housing models that integrate affordability with on-site services. Through The Inclusive, we’re advancing a new approach to community building—one that brings together deeply affordable homes and embedded wraparound supports in partnership with frontline non-profits.


The Wellesley Institute’s recommendations include:


-Creating 40,000 new supportive units in Ontario

-Improving coordination through a one-window government approach

-Establishing clear 10-year targets to address chronic homelessness

-Centring equity and accessibility in delivery


These insights add to a growing body of evidence that underscores the importance of integrated housing strategies—something we continue to explore through our work on The Inclusive and our collaborations with mission-aligned partners.


We thank Jesse Rosenberg, Krishni Ganesan, Safiyah Husein, and Savhanna J. W. for their leadership on this research, and we appreciate the Wellesley Institute for contributing to the national conversation on housing and wellbeing.


Let’s continue building communities that are not just affordable—but supportive, inclusive, and ready for what’s next.

About Spotlight Development


Spotlight Development is a Toronto-based real estate development company dedicated to creating innovative, inclusive, and community-driven housing solutions. Specializing in traditional market condominiums and affordable housing projects, Spotlight combines visionary design with a commitment to sustainability and community impact.


With over 10.5 million ft² of development space, representing more than $4 billion in managed assets, Spotlight Development is reshaping communities through projects that prioritize social impact and sustainability. Guided by the motto Impact Real Estate Empowering People, Spotlight is setting a new standard in the industry.


Learn more at www.spotlightdevelopment.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.

Senior Director, Marketing & Communications

Jasmine Ashfield


 


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