More Affordable Housing Coming to Antigonish
Families and persons with disabilities living in Antigonish will soon have access to more affordable housing.
Joanne Bernard, Minister responsible for Housing Nova Scotia today, July 29, announced $100,000 in federal and provincial funding for the construction of four new homes.
"This investment will make a real difference in the lives of families and persons with disabilities who want to stay in this vibrant community, and we're pleased to support it," said Ms. Bernard. "I can't emphasize enough the important role community groups play to help ensure that lower-income Nova Scotians have access to a home that's right for them, at a price they can afford. This project exemplifies what can be achieved through leadership and partnership."
Riverside Estates will be a new multi-family building with two two-bedroom units and two one-bedroom units. Both ground floor apartments will be barrier-free and meet the needs of persons with disabilities.
"The Government of Canada is helping to make affordable housing available in Nova Scotia and across the country for those who need it most", said Sean Fraser, MP for Central Nova, on behalf of Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. "Through this great project in Antigonish, both governments are working to implement local solutions to local housing challenges and helping to meet the needs of low-income seniors, singles and families."
The Antigonish Affordable Housing Society, a non-profit organization created in 1993 to help provide housing solutions to low-income residents, will be managing and operating the development. The group is already planning for the construction of 10 more units on the adjacent lots.
"This development will offer affordable housing that is safe, secure, energy efficient and accessible. Most importantly, it will provide a sense of community for the residents," said Colleen Cameron, chair of the Antigonish Affordable Housing Society. "Research shows that housing like this, when well-designed and maintained, not only helps the families and individuals who live there, but has a positive effect on the entire community.
"We are so pleased with the support to date, and commit to working hard to provide more affordable housing, since the need in this community is great."
The Town of Antigonish donated the land and the Municipality of the County of Antigonish has pledged $100,000 over the next five years in support of the overall development. The Sisters of St. Martha has also committed to an investment of $100,000. Construction will begin once the Antigonish Affordable Housing Society hires a contractor in the coming weeks.
For more information about Nova Scotia's New Rental Housing program, visit http://www.housingNS.ca/programs/programs-developers-affordable-housing/new-rental-housing