To support Peterborough’s student housing needs, Fleming College and Trent University have partnered with SpacesShared to increase safe, affordable housing solutions for students.
The partnership also fosters community engagement and support for the adult and older adult population in the region according to a press release.
“Trent’s commitment to safe and affordable housing, community support, and aging studies makes our partnership with SpacesShared a strong match,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Together with our community partners, Trent is proud to be creating housing opportunities that are mutually beneficial for students and homeowners in Peterborough and the surrounding areas.”
“This new agreement with SpacesShared will give our students more options when it comes to finding safe and affordable housing in our campus communities,” said Maureen Adamson, Fleming president. “Connecting students with our community while supporting local homeowners is an invaluable step forward.”
“We are committed to ensuring a mutually beneficial experience for both hosts and students. Working with Fleming College, Trent University, and Age-friendly Peterborough, we aim to support a thriving community in the city,” said Rylan Kinnon, SpacesShared CEO and co-founder. “Our platform is a fully self-contained system further enhancing convenience, that facilitates the entire process from listing details of the property and having a conversation with the host to drafting the rental contract, processing monthly payments, and submitting regular feedback, all within the platform’s secure environment.”
To further advocate for this partnership and encourage older adults in the city to sign up for the program as hosts, SpacesShared and the two postsecondary institutes are joining forces with Age-friendly Peterborough. This collaborative initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for older adults by addressing their needs and fostering a supportive community.
“The Age-friendly Peterborough Community Action Plan stresses the importance of celebrating multi-generational opportunities to build a strong community for all. SpacesShared empowers two key groups to meet and learn from each other: older adults and a younger generation,” said Dawn Berry Merriam, Chair of Age-friendly Peterborough.
“The development and maintenance of intergenerational relationships is a protective factor against social isolation not only for older adults but crucially also for students,” explains Jackie Tanner, SpacesShared CXO and co-founder. “But the feeling of safety must be there for it to work. This is where SpacesShared strives to cover the gap and ensure home sharing becomes a rewarding experience for both hosts, as well as students.”
Fleming College, Trent University, Age-friendly Peterborough and SpacesShared invite those interested in exploring home sharing to a free information session about the program on May 30, between 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Lions Community Centre, 347 Burnham St., Peterborough.