Whitby: Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, alongside Ryan Turnbull, Member of Parliament for Whitby, and John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO of Durham Region, has announced $10.3 million to create an estimated 42 new affordable homes for individuals and families in Durham Region through the Cities Stream under the expanded Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI).
These housing units will support Canadians who are in uncertain housing situations, experiencing or at risk of homelessness or living in temporary shelters because of the pandemic.
These funds will go to two new projects in Oshawa and Whitby. The first project is DRNPHC Normandy Towns located at 501 Normandy Street in Oshawa, to 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 second 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.
New investments under the Rapid Housing Initiative will create thousands of good jobs in the housing and construction sector, grow the middle class, and build back stronger communities while getting us closer to our goal of eliminating chronic homelessness in Canada.
Ahmed Hussen said: “This funding through the Rapid Housing Initiative will go a long way to support those who need it most by quickly providing 42 new affordable homes for vulnerable individuals and families in Durham Region, including some of the most vulnerable among us, to keep them safe. This is one of the ways our National Housing Strategy continues to ensure no one is left behind.”
Ryan Turnbull, Member of Parliament for Whitby, said: “Everyone deserves a roof over their head and a safe place to call home. Today’s announcement of additional funding through the Rapid Housing Initiative will have a huge impact on our most vulnerable citizens who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of being homeless.
Availability of affordable housing is scarce in our region and that’s why these new homes will make a difference in ending the cycle of homelessness and protecting the most vulnerable. I would like to thank the federal government for their ongoing support and commitment to create affordable housing in Whitby and across Durham Region.”
John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO of Durham Region, added: “On behalf of the Region of Durham, I am thrilled to see this significant investment from the Federal Government and CMHC. Durham Region is a caring community where no one should get left behind or fall through the cracks. With this Rapid House Initiative 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 RHI is delivered by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).
