Region of Durham investing millions into affordable housing

Region of Durham investing millions into affordable housing

The Region of Durham recognizes the need for affordable housing and as such is investing $8-million to help create more affordable homes in the community. “Creating affordable housing requires strong partnerships and strategic investments,” said John Henry Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Region of Durham.  “Through this $8 million commitment, the Region of Durham is supporting the development of affordable rental homes that will provide stability and opportunity for residents across our communities.” As part of the investment ACA Housing Corporation will receive $750,000 to build 10 units of affordable housing at 82 River Street in Sunderland. The preposed development will convert a vacant three story retirement home into an apartment building. Included in the 10 units are three studio apartments and seven one-bedroom units. Among those units three will be accessible, universal barrier-free units on the ground floor. Athol Green Co-operative Homes Incorporated (AGCHI) is also set to receive funding to supply affordable homes in Oshawa. They’ll receive $7.25-million to build 96 affordable units on the north side of Athol Street West between Centre Street and Simcoe Street. The units will be a part of a new 23-story 274-unit apartment building. Among the 96 affordable units will be 71 one-bedroom units, 21 two-bedroom units and four three-bedroom units. The new building will be designed with accessibility in mind with 15 per cent of the units intended to be accessable. AGCHI say they’re planning on pursuing Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification. WoodGreen’s Homeward Bound Program will also use 25 of these units to support single mothers with housing while they earn college diplomas, start careers and achieve financial self-sufficiency. Funding for these two developments comes via the Region of Durham’s At Home Incentive Program (AHIP), which encourages the development of new affordable rental housing through funding and application support services. For more information about the AHIP you can click here.

Durham plans to build 131 more affordable homes

Durham is investing $8 million into the community to help create 131 more affordable homes as demand for affordable rental housing continues to grow. Several official announcements have been made about promoting ‘affordable housing’ but a definition of ‘affordable’ has not been forthcoming. No timeline was mentioned either. One reference by the City of Oshawa (see below) was provided that the rent would be geared-to-income, but no definite formu…