An affordable housing facility for individuals living with mental health issues and physical disabilities, broke ground today in the city of Hamilton. The development received $6.3 million in combined federal and provincial funding through the Canada-Ontario Investment in Affordable Housing agreement.

“Our Government is investing in affordable housing in Ontario and across the country to help create jobs and improve the quality of life for people who need it most,” said Bob Bratina, Member of Parliament for Hamilton East-Stoney Creek who was on hand at the ceremony. “When complete, this new development will bring 45 more affordable rental housing units to our city of Hamilton, giving a new place to call home for families in our community.”

The City of Hamilton contributed more than $990,000 to the initiative, and also participated in the ground-breaking ceremony. The facility is a partnership between Indwell and Hughson Street Baptist Church and will include both affordable housing and a place of worship.

Developers said they will be seeking to meet passive house certification, a highly energy-efficient building standard that significantly reduces heating and cooling costs.
Planned amenities in the complex include a common room, gymnasium/auditorium, atrium, chapel, community kitchen and classrooms for youth programs.

“We are proud to help fund projects that give members of our community a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Ted McMeekin, Member of Provincial Parliament for Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale.  “Partnerships such as this one not only benefit the people who will be living at this new facility, but our city and our province as a whole.”