Around 100 high school students from London participated in a hands-on construction project to help address homelessness. Over three days, students from the Thames Valley District School Board, London Catholic School Board, and London Christian High School partnered with Fanshawe College’s construction engineering program and the London and District Construction Association (LDCA) to build three temporary shelters. These shelters, measuring 8 by 12 feet, went through stages of construction, including framing, siding, electrical work, and flooring.
The students were highly engaged, often staying late and returning early to complete the work. The shelters are designed as simple, emergency accommodations for winter, equipped with heat pumps, LED lighting, and space-saving murphy beds.
For many students, the project provided a valuable first taste of construction work, especially for those already studying trades in high school. Grade 12 student Kayla Taff described the experience as “fun” and confidence-building, while Marcus Hayward expressed pride in helping those in need.
The shelters’ final destination is yet to be determined, though last year they were sent to Oneida Nation of The Thames. This project allowed students to contribute to their community while gaining practical skills in the construction field.
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