Media releases

• New homesharing option available to Brock students through SpacesShared

  Monday, February 05, 2024 | By Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE: February 5 2024 – R0014

  Through a collaboration with SpacesShared, Brock University is introducing a new homesharing option for students that also aims to help address affordable housing challenges in Niagara.

  Launching for Brock students on Monday, Feb. 5, the innovative online platform uses an advanced algorithm — paired with the expertise of SpacesShared’s team of professionals — to match students in need of housing with older adult hosts with space in their home to rent.

  “The SpacesShared platform offers an additional safe and affordable housing option while also providing an opportunity for our students to build meaningful connections in the community they call home,” says Kristen Smith, Brock’s Manager, Off-Campus and Community Experience. “Through this new initiative, students have a chance to have a lasting impact on the lives of older individuals in the region, providing companionship, helping around the house and learning from the person with whom they are sharing a home.”

  In addition to expanding access to affordable and safe housing for students, SpacesShared helps more Canadians to age at home. Students have the option of doing some household chores for their host in exchange for a reduction on their rent.

  “Homesharing is a proven model that not only increases the stock of affordable housing, but also encourages intergenerational relationships, helps older adults age in place and helps alleviate social isolation for both hosts and students,” says SpacesShared CEO Rylan Kinnon. “If you are an older adult in the area and you are interested in homesharing, we urge you to check out our website to see if SpacesShared is a fit for you.”

  SpacesShared has a vetting process for hosts and students, and provides regular check-ins, surveys, support and problem-solving to ensure the homesharing arrangement is a positive experience for all involved. The organization also handles the homeshare agreement and collection of rent.

  For anyone looking to learn more about hosting opportunities, Brock and SpacesShared will be holding community information sessions on Wednesday, Feb. 21 from 11 a.m. to noon in the Goodman Atrium at the University and on Wednesday, March 6 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Thorold Community Activities Group, 131 Richmond St. in Thorold.

  More information about off-campus living and on-campus housing options is available on the Brock website.

  To register for a free account as a SpacesShared host or student, visit spacesshared.ca

  Categories: Media releases

• Toast of the town: Cuvée returns to raise glass to excellence in Ontario wine

  Monday, February 05, 2024 | By Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE: February 5 2024 – R0013

  The stage is set for the return of Ontario’s premiere celebration of VQA wine, bringing together winemakers and wine lovers to toast the thriving local industry.

  Hosted by Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI), Cuvée is a weekend-long affair centred on the Grand Tasting, where Ontario winemakers will unveil their favourite selections.

  The signature event — the largest of its kind — begins at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 30 at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Centre in St. Catharines and features more than 30 VQA wineries showcasing close to 100 wines from Ontario’s top winemakers. The selections are paired with gourmet cuisine prepared by celebrated chefs at 10 live cooking stations.

  “Cuvée both celebrates excellence in our industry and supports the next generation of winemakers and grape growers by funding valuable research and providing scholarships to students through the Cuvée Legacy Fund,” said CCOVI Director Debbie Inglis.

  The Grand Tasting is followed by Après Cuvée, where guests can dance the night away with live music from Jonesy and enjoy a selection of local craft brews, ciders, sparkling wine and Icewine. Special hotel room rates, in limited supply, are available to guests through the Cuvée website.

  Cuvée Manager Barb Tatarnic said the last time the Grand Tasting was held in person in 2019, the event drew a record crowd of nearly 900 guests.

  “We’re very excited for the return of Cuvée. It’s an unparalleled event that represents the seamless connection between the public and the grape and wine industry,” she said. “Cuvée is the perfect opportunity for guests to meet Ontario winemakers and to learn what their favourite wines are and why. More than a one-of-a-kind occasion, Cuvée truly showcases excellence in wine and food alongside our vibrant and supportive community.”

  While the Grand Tasting is a highlight, Cuvée also runs from March 29 to 31 with its Cuvée en Route passport program. Guests can visit participating Niagara wineries and taste exclusive wines only available to en Route passport holders.

  For more information or to purchase Cuvée Grand Tasting tickets or en Route passports, visit cuvee.ca 

  To learn more about how CCOVI is shaping the future of grape and wine science in Ontario, across Canada and around the world, please visit brocku.ca/ccovi

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews: 

  * Doug Hunt, Communications and Media Relations Specialist, Brock University dhunt2@brocku.ca or 905-941-6209

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  Categories: Media releases