London-North-Centre MP Peter Fragiskatos announces $8.4M for two new affordable housing projects in London, September 9, 2020. Photo courtesy of Peter Fragiskatos' office.London-North-Centre MP Peter Fragiskatos announces $8.4M for two new affordable housing projects in London, September 9, 2020. Photo courtesy of Peter Fragiskatos' office.
London

London affordable housing projects get $8.4M from feds, province

Two housing projects that will create 115 new affordable units in London have been given an $8.4 million boost from the federal and provincial governments.

The funding is being split between the newly completed Residenza Ortona apartment building at 1090 Hamilton Road and a complex at 440 Clarke Rd. It will ensure veterans, individuals, and families at risk of homelessness don't end up on the streets by offering stabling and affordable housing.

"Struggling Canadians need a home that meets their needs and that they can afford," said London-North-Centre MP Peter Fragiskatos, who announced the investment while standing outside of the Residenza Ortona on Wednesday. "This new rental housing development will add vitally needed affordable homes, giving more people in our community the opportunity to have the housing and services that will allow them to thrive here in London."

The Residenza Ortona apartment building at 1090 Hamilton Road. The Residenza Ortona apartment building at 1090 Hamilton Road.

The three and a half storey Hamilton Road building includes 54 affordable housing units, 10 of which will go to homeless veterans. It is accessible with a wheelchair ramp, modified units, and an elevator and is located near grocery stores, transit routes, and medical facilities.

The Clarke Road complex will offer 33 affordable housing units for seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants, low-income residents, and those with mental health and addiction issues. The building will include a shared green space and a common room for tenants. It is also located near transit routes and shopping centres.

"The best results come from working together, and this important investment in London is an example of the good things that can happen when we all come together to help those at risk of homelessness, including veterans," said Steve Clark, Ontario's minister of municipal affairs and housing. "Supporting projects like these is one way we are helping to make our community housing system more efficient and sustainable, and to ensure that people can access the housing and supports they need today, and in the years to come."

The money from both the federal and provincial governments is being distributed through the Affordable Housing program and the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative.

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