Edmonton housing project for LGBTQ2S+ refugees and newcomers now open

A grand opening was held for the Ewaka LGBTQ2S+ housing project for refugees and newcomers on March 31, 2025. (Brandon Lynch/CTV News Edmonton)

A housing project aiming to provide safe, transitional housing for LGBTQ2S+ refugees is now open.

The Ewaka housing project provides low-cost transitional housing for up to six months.

Organizers say Black trans, gender non-conforming and other LGBTQ2S+ people often face barriers in obtaining safe and welcoming housing.

The new project provides tailored services in an effort to make their transition into Canadian society more successful.

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“When I came to Canada, I didn’t have a place to stay. I didn’t know nobody, and the Edmonton community opened their doors for me. They hosted me. They feed me. They nurtured me,” founder Chris Katiiti Adebayo told reporters on Monday.

“They grew me to be someone today who can open a space for other community members who are in the same space with me.”

Katiiti Adebayo says the space is the first of its kind in Canada.

Housing for Ewaka tenants costs $550 per month and includes utilities.

Residents have access to mental health support, first aid and access to legal support.

Ewaka operates following an Afrocentric, intergenerational, multicultural approach that is inspired by the diverse intercultural connection, and which promotes culturally appropriate care.

You can apply for housing online.