About Us
Rooted in Community. Growing Through Partnership.
At Clayton Seniors Housing Corporation (CSHC), we believe that every older adult deserves a safe, affordable, and welcoming place to call home. Since our founding in 1990, we’ve proudly supported seniors in the village of Clayton, Ontario through the operation of Linn Bower, a 25-unit seniors’ apartment building that includes 13 rent-geared-to-income units.
But we are more than a building—we are a community. And now, we’re part of something even
greater.
In 2024, CSHC joined the Lanark Community Alliance, a partnership between three like-minded organizations:
Clayton Seniors Housing Corporation
Carebridge Community Support (CCS)
Community Living Association Lanark County (CLA)
Together, we are working to enhance coordination, quality, and impact across the region—supporting seniors, adults with developmental disabilities, and individuals in need of affordable housing.
Our Mission
CSHC services support individuals and families as they pursue their life goals in community with us. As part of the Lanark Community Alliance, we advance this mission through housing services that promote independence, connection, and well-being.
Our Vision
In our Communities, Everyone Belongs. We envision a day when everyone we support enjoys a place of well-being, respect, opportunity, and contribution to our communities.
Our Values
Belonging
which incorporates principles of inclusion, equity and accessibility.
People-Centred
in all our approaches to planning, services and supports.
Service Excellence
enabled by our teams, collaborations, entrepreneurial spirit,
creativity, planning, evaluation and operational practices.
Working Together
across teams, families, service providers and community partners.
Strong Character
which includes personal qualities based on the pillars of
trustworthiness, fairness, caring, responsibility, authenticity, and accountability.
Respect
for one another in all our interactions
A Story Built by Community
The story of CSHC began in 1987, when a group of local residents—led by the Clayton Women’s Institute and community leader Margaret Duncan—identified a need for seniors’ housing in Clayton. What followed was nearly a decade of hard work, dedication, and grassroots fundraising.
A public meeting in November 1987 drew over 50 residents. From there, a volunteer board was formed and guided by architect Walter Scott, who deferred his fee, and legal advisor Evelyn Wheeler, who donated her services. Professional firms such as Golder & Associates and Sylvia Goldblat joined the cause, helping bring a bold vision to life.
Incorporated in 1990, CSHC secured a $1.6 million grant from the Ontario Ministry of Housing in 1994. The sod-turning ceremony for Linn Bower took place in April 1995—a community-driven achievement that remains a beacon of care and connection to this day.
Founders & Early Champions
We honour the people who laid the foundation for CSHC, including:
Margaret Duncan
Marion Vallentyne
Walter Scott
Evelyn Wheeler
The Clayton Women’s Institute
Founding Board Members (1995): Ben James, Robina Anderson, Rhoda Dunning, Phil
Alderwood, Sally Beaton, Margaret Bellamy, Cliff Bennett, Ron Butcher, Bill Dunning,
Len Miller, Irene Murphy, James Rintoul, Bob Sutcliffe.
Our Impact Today
Today, Linn Bower is home to approximately 30 older adults who enjoy independent living in a warm, welcoming environment. Community connections remain strong through tenant gatherings, seasonal celebrations, and partnerships with local service providers. Thanks to the support of the Lanark Community Alliance, we continue to evolve—responding to changing needs while staying true to our roots.