Former HRC Buildings Demolished Amid Cheers from Survivors (6 Photos)

Demolition of the former Huronia Regional Centre (HRC) is now underway, a development welcomed by many survivors. The HRC, which served as a facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities, operated for 133 years before closing its doors in 2009.

Historical Context of the HRC Demolition

The Huronia Regional Centre was established in 1876 and housed numerous residents throughout its operation. However, many of them faced significant hardships, including abuse. In 2013, a class-action lawsuit concluded with a settlement of $35 million to compensate former residents.

Voices from Survivors

• Cindy Scott, 62, spent six years at the HRC and described her experiences as traumatic.
• Harold Dougall, 77, lived in the facility for two years and expressed relief at the demolition progress.

Both survivors have actively monitored the demolition, which began in January 2024 with Bird Construction. Scott noted, “It’s long overdue,” while Dougall remarked, “Every time I go past there, I get shivers for the good.”

Demolition Details and Future Plans

The site comprises 49 buildings, including the medical infirmary unit and service structures. As of now, two service buildings, Coral Cove Camp, and the multi-sensory house have already been demolished. Upcoming phases will target significant buildings such as:

• The McGee apartment building
• Cottage D
• The main administration building

Besides demolition, survivors are advocating for a memorial museum to honor those who suffered within the institution. This museum aims to educate the public on the past experiences of the thousands who lived and died at the HRC.

Community Support and Advocacy

Debbie Vernon, a former staff member, has been instrumental in supporting survivors through the establishment of advocacy platforms, including the Remember Every Name website. In 2017, she facilitated sessions where survivors expressed their desire for the HRC buildings to be taken down. Vernon stated, “They always said they wanted the buildings to come down because it represented their nightmares.”

The demolition of the HRC has not only provided closure for many survivors but also instilled hope for a future where their experiences can be remembered and acknowledged. A celebration is being planned for the final building’s demolition, symbolizing the end of an era fraught with past injustices.