Published:
Topic: Recent
Category: Recent
When Daniel Kalonji and his family arrived in Windsor, they were strangers to the city, unsure of where to turn. They had just left behind life in Toronto, searching for something safer and more stable. After a brief stay in a hotel, they walked into Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation (WECHC), hoping for help. Little did they know that years later, Daniel would be sitting behind that very same front desk, this time offering hope and guidance to others.
Daniel vividly remembers the day they visited the townhouse on Watson Street for the first time. It wasn’t the number of rooms or the location that piqued his interest — it was the basement. “It sounds silly,” he says with a nostalgic smile, “but we were just so excited about having a basement. Us kids could hang out while our parents were upstairs.”
Watson Street wasn’t just Daniel’s address; it’s where he grew up, found his path, and built the foundation for his future. For 15 years, that home was the backdrop to his biggest milestones — from graduating high school and university to landing his first job and everything in between.
Then an opportunity came to apply for a career at WECHC.
“I applied because I knew what Windsor Housing did for my family when we were in need. I wanted to be on the other side, to give that help back.”
Daniel Kalonji, Financial Services Coordinator
Daniel’s career journey at WECHC began at the front desk, continued through accounts payable, and led him to his current role as financial coordinator. In his role, he often encounters stories that feel all too familiar — families overwhelmed by uncertainty, newcomers trying to find their footing, and mothers searching for safety and stability.
“Affordable housing provided a shelter when finances weren’t necessarily there,” Daniel reflects. For him and many others, it has been life-changing.
"Some of us graduate and move on to different opportunities and sometimes the income increases and we are able to buy a house. You still have that memory of where you used to live. Windsor Housing will forever be a part of so many people’s childhoods."
Daniel Kalonji, Financial Services Coordinator
Along the way, Daniel found more than just professional growth. He discovered a genuine sense of belonging. He especially values the culture within WECHC’s finance department, where colleagues look out for each other not only in times of need but also in everyday moments. “There’s a real camaraderie,” he says. “After a few years, we often spend more time with our coworkers than our own families, so that warmth and joy matter.”
To his fellow colleagues, Daniel reminds them just how powerful their work is.
"You have no idea how helpful you are to tenants. The service we provide is literally the answer to so many people’s prayers."
Daniel Kalonji, Financial Services Coordinator
To tenants and the community, he encourages empathy and patience.
“We do everything with the best intention of heart. The desire to help is real and going above and beyond for our tenants is something we do on a continued basis.”
Looking ahead, Daniel recognizes the growing urgency for affordable housing. “More than ever, affordable housing is needed,” he says. “There’s nothing more heartbreaking than someone walking in, searching for a home, only to hear that there is nothing available right now because of the waitlist.” Drawing from his own lived experience, Daniel often goes above and beyond to connect people with additional resources and support. He hopes to see more affordable houses and units added and believes that expanding partnerships is essential so fewer people have to face this heartbreaking reality.