It's almost move-in day at a new affordable housing on Windsor's west side.
The six-unit complex is the first modular container house in the Windsor area. Family Services Windsor-Essex will operate the site to support 10 at-risk youth aged 16-24 in the community.
The home will be operated with support from the City of Windsor. There is $112,000 in annualized operating costs proposed in the 2022 budget.
"It is a perfect example of the strides the City of Windsor and community partners like Family Services Windsor-Essex are jointly making every day," said Commissioner of Human and Health Services with the City of Windsor Jelena Payne. "We are excited about investments like this because it is yet another step closer to the goals of our 10-year housing and homelessness masterplan."
The apartment complex was built by NOW Housing using eight 40 foot shipping containers. Each unit has a full kitchen, bathroom, and laundry facilities.
The funding for the operational costs of the housing project is one of many expenses proposed in the 2022 City of Windsor Budget for Human and Health Services. The budget also includes funding for new outreach workers, operating costs for new supportive housing units and the new emergency shelter for women and families.
"We are making investments in new units, refurbishing existing properties, and expanding our programming for those experiencing homelessness. The pandemic exposed the cracks in our system, and the City of Windsor has stepped in, working with community partners and service organizations to deliver meaningful improvements across the board," said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens.
There are approximately 5,000 individuals waiting for affordable housing units in Windsor and Essex County.