Orillia's college and university partner to help with student housing

Seniors offering rooms to budget-challenged post-secondary students might be a win-win situation for both parties.

Both Lakehead University and Georgian College are joining forces to offer reasonable student housing options in Orillia with the introduction of SpacesShared.

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"As concerns about affordable rental housing grow within our communities, ensuring students have access to appropriate and reasonably priced accommodations becomes even more crucial, especially for students who may be far away from home," said Shannon Foster, director of residence services at Lakehead University.

"Offering home sharing as a housing solution for students ensures they can focus on their studies without the added stress of finding and affording a place to live," Foster said.

Georgian is the first post-secondary institution to join the SpacesShared platform, expanding to students in Orillia following successful launches in Barrie and Owen Sound.

Lakehead is also kicking off its new partnership with SpacesShared.

The SpacesShared online platform connects students needing safe housing with older adults and community members who have a spare room to rent.

SpacesShared makes aging in place a reality for older adults by providing additional income and companionship. Hosts can also offer a Helpers Discount, which means students can help with a set list of SpacesShared-approved chores around the house, and in exchange for each hour of weekly assistance, their monthly rent is reduced by five percent.

"With inflation and an increase in loneliness, adults and older adults can address these issues while also helping the next generation achieve their goals," said Rylan Kinnon, CEO of SpacesShared.