A Community Dialogue
Recent transitional housing initiatives have generated considerable media coverage and public discussion in Kingston. Community members have raised questions and concerns about how transitional housing is planned, implemented and integrated into neighbourhoods. At the same time, housing providers and the people they serve continue to face an urgent need for safe housing, meaningful support and effective pathways out of homelessness.
This non-partisan public forum, moderated by community leader Bhavana Varma, is intended to bring those perspectives together in a respectful and constructive setting. It will help ground the community conversation in accurate information, frontline experience and practical solutions for the future.
Come and hear from our local Housing Providers and Mayoral Candidates.
Loretta Dining Hall, St. Vincent de Paul Society of Kingston
Wednesday September 23, 2026 | 3:30–5:15 p.m.
Event Schedule
3:30 p.m.
Welcome Reception
Join us in the Loretta Dining Hall for refreshments and an opportunity to connect with Transitional Housing Providers, and community stakeholders before the formal program begins.
4:00 pm
Forum Presentations
Short presentations from Transitional Housing Providers on what defines their program, distinguishes their model, and the successes, challenges, and lessons learned. They will provide practical advice to inform the future of transitional housing in Kingston.
4:30 pm
Mayoral Candidates
The Mayoral Candidates, Grant William Bedard, Conny Glenn, Vanessa Mensah and Mayor Bryan Paterson have all been invited to bring remarks on their approach to Transitional Housing.
4:50 p.m.
Community Questions
Questions will be submitted by members of the public and reviewed by a neutral moderation team for relevance, clarity, respectful language, non-duplication and impartiality. Every Mayoral candidate will receive the same questions, equal response time and a rotating speaking order.
