Melissa’s son Mason stayed in residence as a first year student last year at the University of Guelph with help from money from RESPs and scholarships.
But as a student heading into his second year, the family didn’t realize just how dire the off-campus housing situation was until they started looking for a place to live.
“So we started looking at other places and we noticed that a lot of the rent prices in Guelph were quite high compared to my daughter who goes to Brock, which the rent is a little more reasonable,” said Melissa, who asked the family's last name not be used.
Unable to find a place to rent with two friends on his budget of $550 a month, and with commuting from his Caledonia home not doable for him, the family came up with a creative option: living in a van.
The family caused a social media stir locally when they started looking online for a parking spot where Mason could park a converted camper van. He would be living in the van.
The van has a couch which turns into a bed, a Coleman stove, small fridge with a freezer, solar panels and backup power supply. There is no toilet or shower so his gym membership would have to suffice for the use of its facilities.
Her son purchased a parking pass with U of G but didn’t realize overnight parking didn’t mean someone could stay in their car overnight.
Melissa thought putting a call out on Facebook to rent a parking spot near the university, perhaps in someone’s driveway would be the next best option.
She said there was mixed feedback from the post. “I didn't realize it would elicit quite the response,” Melissa said. It made her feel judged like she was being a bad mother.
People on the Guelph This & That Facebook group had their own thoughts about Melissa's son living in a van during the school year.
“This is not a scenario that sets him up for success, especially during the winter months. Can't he rent a room somewhere? Can he speak with housing services at the university?,” said one commenter.
“This is insanity. What if the heater breaks? This feels really unsafe!,” said another commenter.
“Welcome to the housing crisis! These stories are happening every day. There are families living in tents in our area,” replied another commenter.
“Consider approaching a local church or business and see if they would rent a spot,” said another.
“Can you not get a spot through the university? It used to be a thing when my daughter went there,” asked another.
"I just thought it was kind of an option for other students who can’t afford higher rent prices," said Melissa.
“He's young and he puts a lot of pressure on himself academically,” Melissa said.
She was relieved when the social media post connected them with someone offering a room just slightly above their budget which he took.
“I just was worried about this added pressure on him to make this living situation work.”
She doesn’t know what could help the student housing situation in Guelph, but has advice to other parents whose children may be in a similar situation.
“Just don't put out there that your son or daughter may be living in a van, people don't like that.”
Instead she suggests posting what your budget is for housing on Facebook and see what people may have available.
“You never know what you may find. But it’s difficult. It’s very disheartening,” Melissa said.
