Housing, food and transportation
Finding somewhere to live, accessing food and learning how to get around are important parts of settling into a new community. This page connects you with local and provincial information that can help.
On this page:
Housing
Finding safe and stable housing can take time. Before buying or renting a home, learn about the process, your responsibilities and protects in Ontario.
You can find information and support for:
- finding rental housing
- affordable housing
- tenant rights and responsibilities
- emergency shelter
- housing stability and homelessness supports
- Making it a home checklist and things to consider
Learn more:
- Buying a home - Canada.ca
- Renting in Kitchener
- Social services in Kitchener
- Government of Canada newcomer services – housing
- Emergency shelters and transitional housing in Waterloo Region
- Housing and shelter in Region of Waterloo
- Housing for all - City of Kitchener
- Region of Waterloo housing services
- House of Friendship
- Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region
- Supportive Housing of Waterloo
Be cautious and be aware of rental scams and know your rights as a tenant in Ontario.
Food and basic needs
If you are having difficulty paying for food or other essentials, help is available. Community programs can connect individuals and families with food banks, community meals and emergency food support.
Find food and community supports through 211 Ontario or access the resources below for more information
- Food - Food banks and referrals - 211 Ontario
- Donate food & meals for kids
- Food - House Of Friendship
- Home - Tiny Home Takeout
Getting around Kitchener
There are many ways to travel through Kitchener and Waterloo Region.
Public transit
Grand River Transit operates buses and ION light rail across the region.
Walking and cycling
Kitchener has trails, sidewalks and cycling routes that connect neighbourhoods and destinations.
Travel outside Waterloo Region
GO Transit and other transportation services connect Kitchener with communities outside the region.
Land acknowledgement
The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.