Feds allocate funds for Durham Region affordable housing
The Government of Canada has announced funding for more than 40 affordable housing units in Durham Region.
The feds made the announcement on January 6. The investment sees $10.3 million earmarked for construction of as many as 42 new affordable homes in Oshawa and Whitby. The units, which are being delivered under the rapid housing program, will help those who are in uncertain housing situations, experiencing or at risk of homelessness, or living in temporary shelters because of the pandemic.
"I am thrilled to see this significant investment from the Federal Government,” said regional chair and CEO John Henry. “With this funding going directly towards local housing projects, the region is delighted that our partners have reconfirmed the importance of addressing the urgent housing needs of our vulnerable residents. This is another major step towards achieving the Region's goal of ending chronic homelessness by 2024.
The first project is DRNPHC Normandy Towns located at 501 Normandy Street in Oshawa. The building will be operated by Durham Region Non-Profit Housing Corporation, which will provide 24 affordable homes for those who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
The other project is the Otter Creek Co-op located at 835 McQuay Boulevard in Whitby, which will provide 18 affordable homes for seniors, those with developmental disabilities, and those with mental health or addiction issues.
Launched in October 2020, the Rapid Housing Initiative was created to help address urgent housing needs of vulnerable Canadians, especially in the context of COVID-19, through the rapid construction of affordable housing. The program was initially funded with $1 billion, and was increased by a further $1.5 billion in the 2021 federal budget.
Of the program’s total funding, $500 million is being allocated under the Cities Stream to such Ontario municipalities as Durham, Greater Sudbury, Hamilton, Kingston, London, Niagara, Ottawa, Peel, Toronto, Waterloo and Windsor.
The remaining $1 billion has been allocated under the project stream, which includes proposals submitted by non-profit organizations, projects in the North and in special-access communities. That funding has yet to be distributed.
Featured image: Otter Creek Co-op in Whitby. (Otter Creek)