About Us
Single-family homes represent 17% of Toronto’s total emissions, with the vast majority of these emissions coming from natural gas furnaces, water heaters and appliances. They are also the most challenging type of building to update. Each house is unique, and each homeowner has different needs, budgets and experiences with the clean electric alternatives now available. Each doorstep is a new negotiation, a new roadmap and a family trying to understand how to start a complex project.
We believe that by reaching homeowners through their communities and by encouraging neighbour-to-neighbour dialogue, we can rapidly accelerate the energy transition of our homes. There is a world of difference between researching the specifications of an air source heat pump and experiencing one in action in your neighbour’s living room. Homeowners look for expertise, guidance and support in our communities first. By engaging and supporting Partner Communities, we aim to create a network where every Torontonian has somewhere to turn to for advice.
Our Mission
Together, we can lower carbon pollution for a healthier future.
Through their communities, we help Toronto homeowners update their houses to be comfortable, efficient and gas-free.
Our Story
The inspiration for Toronto Home Retrofits (THR) began in 2017, when passionate residents in the east-end neighbourhood of The Pocket came together to form the Pocket Change Project. Inspired by the need for a sustainable future, they focused on reducing carbon footprints through home retrofits, embodying the spirit of “neighbours helping neighbours.”
As the Pocket Change Project (PCP) grew, it showcased the retrofit journeys of several early adopters. The positive results—like the installation of energy-efficient heat pumps and building envelope improvements—sparked interest from other neighbourhoods eager to embark on similar journeys. It became clear that this emphasis on peer support was a missing ingredient in the often challenging process of updating our homes. Recognizing this potential, several leaders from the PCP chose to expand the vision and provide the framework necessary for community groups throughout the city to replicate this model.
In March 2023 Toronto Home Retrofits (THR) became an incorporated non-profit organization. With the backing of local champions and early supporters, including sustainability experts and environmental organizations, we looked for support to make our vision a reality. By late 2023, both the The Atmospheric Fund and Toronto Hydro agreed to fund THR. This support lays the groundwork for us to develop partnerships with community groups, train volunteers, and refine our community-based retrofitting model.
During 2025, we will continue our exciting journey as we offer our program through four pilot Partner Communities across Toronto. We will assist them in organizing engaging workshops and local outreach events that foster a supportive environment for residents to share ideas and learn about retrofitting. A key aspect of our pilot program will be the development of tailored resources, including guides, templates, and checklists, to empower our Partner Communities in leading their own retrofit initiatives. We will also help homeowners connect with the technical advisors needed to create their retrofit plans and to evaluate skilled contractors, ensuring they can build the right team. Additionally, we aim to address the challenges homeowners face and advocate for improved programs and pathways to make the retrofit journey more accessible.
Throughout the year, we will engage with our Partner Communities by attending local gatherings and environmental fairs, sharing insights from our experiences and encouraging discussion. We believe that by highlighting the success stories and lessons learned from other neighbourhoods, we can inspire even greater participation and commitment. Together with our Partner Communities, we are eager to test and refine our model, ensuring it is adaptable and relevant to the diverse neighbourhoods of Toronto.
The goal of our pilot year is to learn, engage, and build the foundations to offer our programs to more communities across Toronto. Local ownership and pride among residents will propel our growth. We believe we can foster a strong network of engaged communities united in their goal to create greener, more efficient homes.
Our Team
Board of Directors
Staff
Board of Directors
Volunteers
Current
Liz Addison
Lindsay Butti
John Girardo
Martha Hancock
Farouk Janmohamed
David Langille
Nick Martin
Joseph Musisi
Our Funders
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to The Atmospheric Fund (TAF) and Toronto Hydro for their invaluable support of our mission. As leaders in fostering sustainability and energy efficiency, TAF and Toronto Hydro are natural partners for our work.
TAF’s commitment to innovative climate solutions and community engagement aligns perfectly with our vision of empowering neighbourhoods to retrofit their homes for a greener future. Similarly, Toronto Hydro’s expertise in energy management and dedication to promoting clean energy make them an essential ally as we guide residents through the retrofitting process.
Together, we are working to create healthier, more sustainable communities across Toronto, and we couldn’t be more thankful for their collaboration.