Here for you: how we support people in Waterloo Region Housing
Leslie truly understands the power of a helping hand. Having once needed it herself, she now offers that same life-changing support to people living in Waterloo Region Housing communities. The Region owns and operates more than 2,700 subsidized housing units in Waterloo Region. These are rental units where the cost is reduced based on a person or family’s income.
As a Tenant and Community Liaison Specialist, Leslie is a vital connection for those residents, helping them access the different community services they need to stay housed and thrive.
Specialists like Leslie build positive relationships with tenants. They provide resources, encourage community engagement, help resolve issues, and support people to avoid eviction if they are struggling to make ends meet.
Sometimes Leslie advocates for tenants who face barriers in getting the supports they need. “There was a gentleman with mental health concerns who struggled to get on ODSP for five years,” she says. “He felt alone and didn’t know what to do. I went in weekly to chat with him and connected him with home care services, a nurse and a social worker, and he began qualifying for financial assistance.”
She says it’s about listening to what people need and building a level of trust.
“I let them know that I’m not here to judge, I’m here to support you. And success looks different for different people,” Leslie says.
She loves visiting the communities she serves, and Leslie also adds that there’s a lot of pride among the Waterloo Region Housing residents who really care for the property and their neighbours.
We hope you enjoyed meeting Leslie! The Region of Waterloo may be a large organization, but within it are thousands of people working to support their neighbours. This is part of a “Here For You” series to introduce you to the many faces and roles at the Region who are working to deliver programs and services you rely on every day.
Follow the Region’s social media accounts (X, Facebook and Instagram) to meet more of these employees. You can even ask questions and get answers from these folks as we go!