Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government has announced $3 million for supportive and affordable housing projects in the Northwestern region – $1.7 million to help build 30 affordable units in Marathon, and $1.1 million for six supportive housing beds and a warming centre in Fort Frances.
“We are working with our partners to get more community, affordable and supportive housing built across all parts of the province,” said Paul Calandra, minister of municipal affairs and housing. “Our government is making it easier to build homes of all types faster because every Ontarian deserves a home that meets their needs.”
Developed by CVG Group, the property at 1 McLeod Drive in Marathon was donated by the Town of Marathon to the housing provider, Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS).
The three-storey apartment complex has 30 affordable two-bedroom units with a scenic view of Lake Superior. The vision for the project was to alleviate homelessness and overcrowding in the community. The complex upholds high environmental sustainability benchmarks. Priority access will be given to Indigenous community members facing homelessness or living in overcrowded conditions.
Also, the Rainy River Services Board purchased a decommissioned church to fulfill a vision of offering a range of housing services and supports at one location.
Project HOPE (Housing, Opportunity, Progress and Empowerment), a multi-year construction project, is now ready to house programs specifically designed to support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness and those recovering from addiction or looking for stability to transition to permanent housing.
Funding for 325 Victoria Avenue in Fort Frances was provided by the province’s Homelessness Prevention Program, which supports Ontario’s 47 municipal service managers to deliver affordable housing and support services for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
