The YMCA Hamilton-Burlington-Brantford issued the following press release at 4:3o p.m. on Wednesday, July 24. TPR is watching this story and the City of Hamilton’s response to assist the 173 displaced residents of the building following the four-alarm fire on Monday, July 22.

Full Press Release below:

Hamilton, Ontario – July 24, 2024: As an update to the community, the fire in the YMCA Men’s Residence on July 22 caused the evacuation of 173 occupants from their homes and resulted in extensive damage, particularly on the third floor, with heavy smoke affecting multiple levels of the residence.
When the Fire Marshall’s office returned the building to the YMCA on July 23, we promptly engaged our insurance providers to begin restoration efforts. Unfortunately, the damage is more extensive than we initially anticipated.
While we were hoping for a quicker return home for our residents, there is an urgent need for a more comprehensive transition plan that will require additional time.
We remain fully engaged with the City of Hamilton’s Emergency Response Team, and the Red Cross will continue to provide necessary services. Details of the plan will be shared once they are confirmed.
Status of YMCA Services:
  • Men’s Residence: The residents will remain at the YMCA facility and stay overnight with Red Cross support through the weekend as we work through accommodation plans.
  • Hamilton Downtown Family YMCA: The branch remains closed and will reopen during the week of Monday, July 29, 2024.
Statement from Manny Figueiredo, President & CEO YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford 
“This has been a tremendous time of crisis and it’s been very difficult for our residents, members, and the entire community. Our residents are experiencing a great deal of anxiety due to the displacement they are enduring. We understand the profound impact this situation has had on their lives, and we are committed to providing all the support we can. 
We are so grateful to the City of Hamilton, including all emergency responders, the Red Cross, our valued housing and food security non-profit organizations, community partners, and generous donors. Their swift action and unwavering dedication have been invaluable in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone affected. 
We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our community members for their patience, resilience, and solidarity during these challenging times. Together, we will overcome this adversity and continue to build a stronger, more connected community.”
Ways to Help: Individuals can visit our website at www.ymcahbb.ca to make a financial contribution to help support the recovery effort at the YMCA Men’s Residence.
Additional Information: 
  • At approximately 12:22 PM on July 22, a fire broke out on the third floor of the Men’s Residence, necessitating the evacuation of the building.
  • The fire started in and was contained to a unit on the 3rd floor, but there was heavy smoke on the 4th and 5th floors of the residence.
  • 173 occupants (capacity is 174 units) live in the Men’s Residence and now accommodated within the Hamilton Downtown Family YMCA facility at 79 James Street South, Hamilton
  • Thank you to community partners including Good Shepherd, Salvation Army, United Way, Food for Life, Neighbour to Neighbour, Fortino’s Ancaster, Tim Hortons, and more.
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