For more than five decades, St. Matthew’s House has been a pillar of compassion and support in the Hamilton community. Founded with a mission to serve those in need, the organization has grown and evolved, responding to the changing needs of seniors, families, and individuals facing housing and food insecurity. Now, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of our incorporation, we embark on an exciting new chapter—one that honours our history while positioning us for an even stronger future.
This year is being marked with a significant milestone: a rebranding that reflects both our legacy and our forward momentum. St. Matthew’s House is now St. Matt’s. Alongside our new name comes a refreshed visual identity, including a bold new logo, updated tagline, and modernized brand colours. While this transformation is outwardly visible, the heart of our work remains unchanged—providing life-changing support to those who need it most.
Why the Change?
Rebranding is not about erasing the past; it is about evolving to meet the present and future with clarity, energy, and inclusivity. Over the years, St. Matthew’s House has expanded far beyond its origins, becoming a lifeline for seniors at risk of homelessness, a champion for food and income security, a provider of quality childcare, and an innovator in community-based support programs. Our work has grown, and our brand must reflect that evolution.
The transition to St. Matt’s allows us to be more accessible, recognizable, and adaptable. The shortened name is friendly and familiar, removing barriers for those we serve while reinforcing that we are a dynamic, modern organization. At the same time, it maintains our deep-rooted connection to our faith-inspired values of service, dignity, and justice.
A Legacy of Service, A Future of Impact
As we move forward as St. Matt’s, we remain committed to the vital work that defines us. Our programs continue to provide stability, dignity, and hope for seniors who are homeless or at risk of eviction. Our innovative initiatives, such as our paralegal program and eviction-avoidance services, help seniors navigate legal and financial challenges, preventing homelessness before it happens. Our street outreach and food programs ensure that no senior in our community is left behind.
We are also growing in bold new ways. The construction of 412 Barton, our 15-unit deeply affordable housing project for Black and Indigenous seniors, is a testament to our commitment to lasting solutions. This initiative will provide not only safe housing but also a supportive community, allowing residents to thrive with dignity and security. Meanwhile, our childcare programs continue to nurture the youngest members of our community, ensuring they have the foundation they need to grow and succeed.
A New Look, A Steadfast Mission
With our rebranding, we are introducing a fresh visual identity that captures the essence of St. Matt’s: warmth, resilience, and inclusivity. Our new logo symbolizes the interconnectedness of our work, while our updated colour palette reflects both the strength and compassion that define our mission. These changes are not simply aesthetic—they reinforce our identity as an organization that is both deeply rooted in tradition and boldly stepping into the future.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate 50 years of incorporation, we invite our community to join us in this exciting transformation. Whether you have been with us since the beginning or are just learning about our work, now is the time to engage. Together, we can build a future where every senior has a place to call home, every child has the care they deserve, and every person in need finds a compassionate ally in St. Matt’s.
Rebranding is more than a name change—it’s a renewed commitment to our mission, a reflection of the community we serve, and a promise to continue evolving in service of those who need us most. Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to the next 50 years of impact, innovation, and unwavering care.
Renée Wetselaar is the Executive Director of St. Matthew’s House, soon to be St. Matt’s.
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