After six years of working together to provide shelter and community for people who were experiencing homelessness, A Better Tent City has realized that we can no longer continue as a volunteer-led organization. 

ABTC has faced increasing challenges operating the site, making it unsustainable in its present form. Over the last year, we lost several key volunteers who provided operational leadership. In addition, significant health and safety challenges have been identified that have grown beyond our ability to manage. 

As a result, we have decided to dissolve the corporation over the next few months. 

Rather than the site shutting down, The Working Centre (TWC) has agreed to step in to provide operational support at the site, starting Monday, July 20, 2026. Over the next two months, ABTC and TWC will work closely together on the transition planning.

Transition work will be undertaken collaboratively by TWC, the Region of Waterloo and other partners over the coming weeks. This will include a full assessment of site needs and conditions. Once the assessment is completed, a report including recommendations will be provided to Regional Council for its consideration before the end of June. 

A Better Tent City was the vision of the late Ron Doyle, who hoped this model would inspire others to adapt it in their own communities. ABTC was the first of its kind in Canada, but there are now an estimated 18 similar communities helping people transition from homelessness.

All of this was made possible through the generosity of donors who helped us to purchase the first few homes and repurpose an old trailer as a shower facility/laundry room on wheels; compassionate volunteers who have helped in the kitchen and with maintenance; and local non-profits who have been amazing partners. 

The opportunity to continue ABTC at 49 Ardelt would not have been possible without the generous and compassionate partnership of the Waterloo Region District School Board and the City of Kitchener. Since October 2021, the School Board and the City have made this property available. We are sincerely grateful.

Jeff Willmer