Help Garrick Find a Safe and Stable Home

Help Garrick Find a Safe and Stable Home

July 31, 2024

Hello, my name is Garrick Pattenden, and I am reaching out to ask for your support in securing a new place to live. Due to ongoing legal and health challenges, my current living situation has become unbearable and hazardous to my well-being. Your help can make a significant difference in my life, providing me with the stability and safety I desperately need.

I have been living at my current location since 2016. I initially lived in Apartment #10 and moved to Apartment #3 in 2017. Throughout this time, I have never missed a rent payment. Despite my diligence, my living conditions have deteriorated significantly due to negligence by the building owner, Martino.

Personal Anecdotes

My mother and I have invested more money into these apartments than most tenants ever would. The basement of Apartment #10 flooded, damaging the dry rot baseboards. I had to exterminate mice and roaches on my own and painted the entire unit. After moving to Apartment #3, we continued to improve the space, painting the walls and trim with the best available materials. Despite our efforts, the conditions remained dire.

In 2019, the bathroom’s toilet wax ring seal failed, leading to a sewage backup of liquid waste and fecal matter in my apartment. The problem was contained to the bathroom, but it took three days to repair, and the landlord never cleaned it properly. My mother and I had to handle the hazardous cleanup ourselves. These experiences, among others, have taken a toll on my mental and physical health.

Living in this apartment building for 8 years now, and having to put up with a landlord who blames everyone for problems within the building, especially when these issues have nothing to do with the tenant, has exacerbated my health issues, making it critical for me to find a new, safe place to live. My monthly income is $1,296, which is far less than the national average income and insufficient to cover my living expenses and the cost of moving to a new place. I currently pay $564 per month in rent, and the building owner is attempting to charge me for unreasonable expenses, including plumbing issues that are the landlord’s responsibility.

Understanding the Rental Crisis

The rental housing crisis in Canada has worsened significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Rent increases and bidding wars on basic rentals are making it increasingly impossible for people to afford housing. The national average rent has soared to over $2,000, with many renters paying significantly more compared to previous years. This situation forces people to choose between paying their basic bills, rent, and groceries, exacerbating financial struggles for many.

Landlords now demand much higher incomes to qualify for rentals, often far exceeding what average individuals earn. Programs like the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) are not providing sufficient support, leaving many to face homelessness. The Government of Canada needs to implement solutions to address this affordability crisis, ensuring that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.

The current rental costs for a one-bedroom apartment in Windsor are around $1,299 per month, while two-bedroom apartments range from approximately $1,495 to $1,800 per month, depending on the location and amenities. Given my income, affording such rent is impossible without continuous financial support.

Impact on Health

The apartment has severe maintenance issues, including a poorly installed kitchen counter, old wiring from a 70-plus-year-old building that poses a significant hazard, and cracks and mold around the sink. These conditions have made me feel depressed. I am currently involved in a legal dispute with my landlord over these issues. Due to my medical condition, Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia (ARVD), I am unable to attend high-stress situations, as it can cause sudden death. Therefore, a proxy will be handling my case in an upcoming tribunal hearing scheduled for August 29, 2024.

Why I Need Your Help

I am seeking to raise funds to cover the costs associated with moving to a new, safe apartment. This includes first and last month’s rent for a new place, moving expenses (hiring movers, transportation, etc.), and initial setup costs such as utility deposits and basic furnishings.

My Commitment to You

I am committed to using these funds solely for securing safe and affordable housing. I will keep all donors updated on my progress and provide transparency about how the funds are being used. Every contribution, no matter how small, brings me one step closer to stability and peace of mind.

A Bit About Me

I am actively involved in my community through the Unity and Pride Network, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and support. As a cisgender, straight male assigned at birth (MAAB), I am a dedicated ally and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. My passion for helping others has always driven me, and now I am asking for your help to get through this personal hurdle.

Looking for a Roommate

Given the high rental costs, I am seeking a quiet, respectful, non-smoking, and non-drinking roommate to share a two-bedroom apartment. I welcome individuals of any gender, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+. It is important that the roommate:

• Respects each other’s privacy and space.

• Does not bring overnight guests.

• Has a clean record from the authorities.

• Has no past issues with breaking leases.

• Is financially stable and can reliably contribute to rent and utilities.

• Is willing to commit to providing written notice at least 60 days in advance if they need to move out.

• Is willing to sign a roommate agreement to formalize our living arrangements and responsibilities.

• Values open communication to address any issues that may arise.

• Is tidy and committed to maintaining a clean and orderly living environment.

I am committed to creating a harmonious and supportive living environment. Finding a reliable and responsible roommate is crucial to ensuring that we both have a comfortable and stress-free home. If you know someone who fits this description, please reach out to me on Facebook Messenger.

Upcoming Tribunal Hearing

I am scheduled to have a Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Tribunal Hearing on August 29th. Due to the immense stress, a proxy will be handling my case during the video hearing. This hearing is a crucial step in resolving some of the ongoing issues with my current landlord.

How You Can Help

Donate: Any amount you can contribute will make a significant difference.

Share: Please share this campaign with your friends, family, and social networks.

Support: Leave a message of support or share your own housing stories to raise awareness about the rental crisis.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and consider supporting my campaign. Your generosity and kindness can provide me with the fresh start I need and deserve. I appreciate any help you can provide, whether it be through donations or sharing my story.

Contact Information:

Garrick Pattenden

Message me on Facebook

Your support and compassion are deeply appreciated. Thank you.

Unity and Pride Network