Government funding providing transitional, affordable housing in Perth, Smiths Falls
The provincial government is stepping in to help with new transitional and affordable housing in Perth and Smiths Falls.
It was announced on Thursday, Oct. 10 that a total of $2.4 million, which also includes funding for a 34-unit affordable housing project in Kingston, is being provided through the Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF).
Six transitional housing units will be built in Perth, aimed at supporting individuals and families who have experienced domestic violence or abuse. The units are designed using universal design principles, meaning they are accessible to people of all abilities, with features like wider doorways and step-free entryways. Plans are also in place to add covered, accessible scooter parking in the future.
Erin Lee, executive director of Lanark County Interval House, noted that the housing crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to increased incidents of violence and isolation, especially in rural communities, making the funding all the more important.
“The response from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing was timely and in partnership with our county, was instrumental in supporting our application, she said in a media release. “What an amazing outcome for women and their children as we were able to create six transitional housing units. We remain grateful for the insight and support funding received in 2020/2021.”
Two affordable housing units will also be funded by the government at 44 Chambers Street in Smiths Falls. The project includes 28 rent-geared-to-income units in total, consisting of one, two, and three-bedroom options, along with seven fully accessible units.
Smiths Falls mayor Shawn Pankow called the 44 Chambers Street project “life-changing” for residents at a time when the rising cost of housing is impacting so many people in the community. He remarked that half of residents are currently spending fifty per cent or more of their income on their home.
“This development took the collaborative effort of numerous people and organizations, and the support from the Province of Ontario through the Social Service Relief Fund was a key cornerstone of funding that helped make these thirty-four deeply affordable homes possible.”
Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston MPP John Jordan remarked that the investments made in affordable housing have “a very real impact” on the future of communities throughout the region. “The residents of Smiths Falls, Perth and Kingston have a safe and welcoming place to call home – that can make all the difference in addressing the challenges and opportunities they are faced with.”