Merchants Corner is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering people through education, housing and community development. Merchants Corner is made up of 30 affordable housing units, shared classroom space and community-use facilities. A dream 20 years in the making, the development of Merchants Corner was led by North End community members to reclaim the buil
ding as a beacon of hope, renewal, and neighbourhood transformation. Since opening its doors in 2018, Merchants Corner has been a safe home and learning environment for hundreds of children, youth, students and families. Merchants Corner is comprised of two unique buildings influenced by Indigenous values and community collaboration. There are 17 affordable housing units in the Merchants Corner North building (located on Pritchard Avenue) and 13 in the South building (located on Selkirk Avenue). The South building is also home to building partners Community Education Development Association (CEDA) literacy and high school graduation program, University of Winnipeg Urban and Inner City Studies Program, University of Winnipeg Student Association, and Perfect Place Social Enterprise Cafe. Merchants Corner addresses issues of poverty and social determinants of health and well-being through providing stable and safe housing and opportunities for education. The project’s charter created for the redevelopment of Merchants Corner provides the following guiding principles:
Co-operative Connection
The project will create a cooperative connection between groups and facilities in the community and proposed facilities on site. The project will encourage collaborative partnerships and build on existing strengths for the well-being of the greater community. Mixed use
The project will be developed as a mixed-use facility and include a mix of residential, educational, retail and community components. Sustainability
The project will be founded on the principles of holistic sustainability on all levels including economic, environmental, social and cultural sustainability. The project will be mindful of community wellness and spiritual wholeness toward the seventh Generation. Community Economic Development principles
The project will be guided by CED principles including developing local resources, an inclusive process, holism, collaboration and sustainability. Intergenerational
The project will include elders, youths, adults, children and families. Universally Accessible
The project will ensure all facilities are universally accessible to all citizens.
