The Cardboard House

The YWCA Niagara Region, with the support of Mountainview Homes built a 24×16 foot Cardboard House to raise awareness about the growing problem of homelessness in Niagara.

We were thrilled to have the Cardboard House  on display at Seaway Mall in Welland this past year!

In correlation with our event No Fixed Address, the Cardboard House is an interactive display that tours visitors through the many misconceptions, realities, and solutions to homelessness in Niagara. Breaking down the stereotype that “homelessness could never happen to me”, is perhaps the strongest message within the House. Upon entering the door, visitors are confronted with their own image, and are challenged to recognize that homelessness is not selective – it can happen to anyone.

Check out the setup HERE!

The Cardboard House has helped us raise awareness of poverty and homelessness all over the Region:

• Pen Centre
• United Way Campaign Kick-Off Breakfast
• Church of Christ Tintern
• Niagara Regional Housing
• St. Paul High School Niagara Falls
• St. Michael High School Niagara Falls
• Brock University

It is here that we, at the YW, and the rest of the community have an opportunity to reflect on what homelessness means, how it affects all of us and how we can address this very real epidemic. If you are interested in putting up the cardboard house, please contact Franziska Emslie.

Thank you Susan Ryzebol, Rick Vanderkuip, George Miedema, John Vanderperk, Tom Venema, Dennis Teeuwsen, Dave Wiersma, James Vahrmeyer, Derek Ryzebol, Jeremy Froese, Ryan Vander Veen, Ryan Vanderberkel, Rick Hoogendam, Darrel Buys, Doug Bratton and Hank Rensink for helping us assemble and disassemble the house.
We would like to especially thank Chad Bezuyen, who always makes sure that we have enough volunteers to help out with the (dis)assembly of the House. We are touched by your dedication and kindness.

Presented by: The YWCA Niagara Region

Designed by: YW Staff & Volunteers

Graphics designed by: Suzanne Veenstra

Built by: Mountainview Homes

Construction &  Assembly Volunteers: Ben Blair, Brent Veenstra, Carli Taylor, Crystal D’Cunha, Erin Huard, James Hoffman, Meaghan Sharp, Nicki Inch

Sponsored by: Mountainview Homes, The Brick, Reimer Graphics, Future Shop

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