Toronto is set to expand a pioneering pilot program that allows medical professionals to “prescribe” affordable housing for at-risk patients, aiming to reduce homelessness and ease pressure on emergency rooms.

Launched by the University Health Network (UHN) in 2023, the initiative transformed a parking lot near King Street West and Jameson Avenue into 51 modular housing units, which opened in 2024. Early results were promising: ER visits dropped by 52%, and hospital bed stays fell by 79%, showing the impact of stable housing on health outcomes.

Now, the federal government is backing a new 54-unit development in Parkdale, Toronto, with $21.6 million in funding, while Ontario will provide $2.6 million annually for operations. The City of Toronto will lead construction of the modular units.

Federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson emphasized that the project combines innovation with compassion, delivering urgently needed supportive housing while reducing build times, waste, and environmental impact.

Kevin Smith, CEO of UHN, highlighted the pilot’s success in both relieving the healthcare system and improving residents’ lives. The expansion will focus on at-risk seniors who frequently use emergency services, further strengthening care and reducing avoidable hospital strain.