Work is underway on a new housing project that will provide 35 new rental homes in Ottawa.

Federal Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion Ahmed Hussen announced $6.6 million in funding to support construction of a new building on the site of the former Christ Church Bells Corners rectory in the city’s west end.

The City of Ottawa has allocated an additional $740,000 in waived fees and development charges, while Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative will provide $4 million in funding toward the project.

"By waiving fees for this project and combining city funds with contributions from our partners, the City of Ottawa is able to help fill an urgent housing need,” said Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson. “We will be able to improve the quality of life for people in the community and ensure that at-risk individuals and families will soon have an opportunity to access safe, affordable housing."

Located at 3865 Old Richmond Road, the building, which has been named Hollyer House, will include a mix of unit sizes and rental affordability to create a diverse community and address the needs of vulnerable populations, including seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families.

Of the building's 35 units, 10 will be dedicated to single women and women with children. The ground floor of the building will also host a community services hub containing a food cupboard and a community resource centre.

The building is owned by the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa will be operated in partnership with the Christ Church Bells Corners Parish, along with support from a number of community organizations.

"The Anglican Diocese of Ottawa is a strong advocate for affordable housing and is actively committed to providing new units,” said Reverend Shane Parker, Bishop of the Anglican Archdiocese of Ottawa. “We gladly collaborate and partner with many other organizations to do this work, and we value the support of CMHC, which has been instrumental in making the Hollyer House project possible."

The investment by the Government of Canada was made possible by the National Housing Strategy's National Housing Co-Investment Fund and seed funding, administered by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.