Village of Hope

The Humanitarian Crisis

In response to the escalating financial crisis faced by Gaza evacuees in Canada, NZF initiated discussions with DOM and CFP. CFP proposed allocating a portion of their property in Milton for a housing project, leading to the conception of the Village of Hope—a sustainable community designed to address both immediate and long-term housing needs.

550

Evacuees in Canada

83

Families on Housing Waitlist

$636,000

Funding Needed for Housing

12%

Of Visa Applications Completed

Background & Context

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Escaping War and Violence

Gaza has faced intense and sustained bombardment, destruction of infrastructure, and a humanitarian blockade. Many families were fleeing imminent danger to their lives, especially in areas like Rafah and northern Gaza, where airstrikes and ground invasions severely damaged homes, schools, and hospitals.

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Family Reunification

Canada introduced a temporary resident visa (TRV) program in January 2024, specifically for Palestinians in Gaza who have close family members in Canada (citizens or permanent residents). This was a limited humanitarian measure, prioritizing family reunification.

Many evacuees were sponsored by relatives, some of whom had been advocating for months or years to get loved ones out of harm’s way.

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Special Immigration Measures

  • The Canadian government allowed up to 5,000 applicants under this TRV pathway.
  • While over 4,600 applications were accepted for processing, only about 550 individuals have made it to Canada as of May 2025.
  • Primary obstacles include border closures (especially at Rafah) and travel restrictions.
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Lack of Alternatives

For many, there were no other safe countries or resettlement options available. The urgency of the situation left families with few choices but to seek refuge in Canada through this special program.

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Community Support

Canadian communities, mosques, and organizations have mobilized to provide support, but resources are stretched thin. Ongoing assistance is needed for housing, employment, and integration.

Challenges Faced by Evacuees

Financial Hardship

Many have exhausted savings covering travel costs and temporary housing. Without government support, they rely on crowdfunding and community assistance for basic needs.

Mental Health Struggles

The trauma of surviving conflict and displacement has left many with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Access to specialized mental health services remains limited.

Housing Instability

Finding affordable housing is a major hurdle, leading to temporary and overcrowded living situations. Many face the threat of homelessness.

Immigration Uncertainty

Unclear immigration status complicates access to healthcare, employment, and education, hindering integration into Canadian society.

Language Barriers

Limited proficiency in English or French poses challenges in communication, employment, and accessing services. Language training programs are under-resourced.

The Village of Hope Solution

Droplets of Mercy, Centre For Peace, and National Zakat Foundation have partnered to create a sustainable housing solution for Gaza evacuees in Milton, Ontario.

Project Highlights

75-100 Homes

Prefabricated, modular homes for families

600 Residents

Capacity to house approximately 600 people

Community Kitchen

5,000 sq ft community center with kitchen

Secure Environment

Gated property with security patrols

Sustainable Living

10 acres for income-generating initiatives

Rent-Free Living

Families live without rent burden

Project Summary

Village of Hope Canada is a collaborative initiative by Droplets of Mercy, Centre For Peace, and National Zakat Foundation to provide sustainable, rent-free housing and a supportive community for Gaza evacuees in Milton, Ontario. The project will utilize 10 acres of a 150-acre property, offering 75-100 prefabricated homes, a community center, and income-generating opportunities. The goal is to relieve the burden of rent, foster integration, and create a safe, thriving environment for up to 600 people.

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  • 10 acres dedicated for the Village of Hope within a 150-acre property in Milton.
  • 75-100 prefabricated, modular homes for families.
  • Community center (4500-5000 sq ft) and kitchen for residents.
  • Gated, secure environment with privacy and safety measures.
  • Income-generating land and initiatives for residents.
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  • Property purchased and managed by Centre For Peace.
  • Post-completion management by CFP.
  • Fundraising for land and home construction.
  • Collaboration with partners and local organizations.
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  • Coalition of Canadian charities for generational impact.
  • Government and corporate grants to support costs and resident independence.
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  • Phased approach: awareness, momentum, fundraising, land acquisition, construction, post-development management.
  • Community engagement, legal, and financial oversight at each stage.
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12-15 months from coalition agreement to deliver 100 homes, subject to external factors.

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Estimated total project cost: $7-9 million CAD (land, homes, fees, operations).

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