Ontario Building Supportive and Affordable Housing in Northwestern Ontario

The Ontario government is providing nearly $1.7 million to help create 30 affordable units in Marathon, and more than $1.1 million in additional funding to help create six supportive housing beds and a warming centre in Fort Frances.

“We are working with our partners to get more community, affordable and supportive housing built across all parts of the province,” said Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “Our government is making it easier to build homes of all types faster because every Ontarian deserves a home that meets their needs.”

The property at 1 McLeod Drive in Marathon was donated by the Town of Marathon to the housing provider, Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS). The three-storey apartment complex features 30 affordable two-bedroom units with a scenic view of Lake Superior. The vision for the project was to alleviate homelessness and overcrowding in the community. The complex upholds high environmental sustainability benchmarks. Priority access will be given to Indigenous community members facing homelessness or living in overcrowded conditions.

325 Victoria Avenue in Fort Frances is a decommissioned church that the District of Rainy River Services Board (DRRSB), which administers housing programs in Fort Frances, bought with a vision of offering a range of housing services and supports at one location. Project HOPE (Housing, Opportunity, Progress and Empowerment), a multi-year construction project, is now ready to house programs specifically designed to support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness and those recovering from addiction or looking for stability to transition to permanent housing. Residents will have access to services such as employment support and mental health and addictions counselling. Operating from November until April, the warming centre is an “out of the cold” program that operates during the coldest nights of the year. The transitional housing program will open its doors to residents this fall.

Funding for 325 Victoria Avenue in Fort Frances was provided by the province’s Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP), which supports Ontario’s 47 municipal service managers to deliver affordable housing and support services for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Additionally, the Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF) supported this project – to date, the SSRF has provided more than $1.2 billion for emergency supports and longer-term housing solutions. 1 McLeod Drive in Marathon was funded through the SSRF.

Quick facts

  • In 2023, the government increased annual funding for the HPP and the Indigenous Supportive Housing Program (ISHP) by more than $200 million, or 40 per cent, to help those experiencing or at risk of homelessness and support the community organizations delivering supportive housing. This funding can also be used to build new supportive housing units.
  • District of Rainy River Services Board has been allocated $1,133,300 in annual HPP funding, an increase of $592,800 from 2022-23.
  • Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services has been allocated $31,120,500 in annual ISHP funding, an increase of $8,620,500 from 2022-23.

Quotes

“Our government remains steadfast in its commitment to support the most vulnerable as we develop comprehensive housing solutions for all Northerners. By investing in supportive housing and a warming centre, we are ensuring that essential services are within reach for community members facing challenging circumstances. These initiatives are vital steps towards creating safer, more accessible communities where no one is left behind.” – Greg Rickford, MPP for Kenora – Rainy River, Minister of Northern Development, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation

“This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and community support. With the help of provincial funding and local partnerships, we have created a space where people can regain their footing, access vital services, and begin their journey toward permanent housing.” – Andrew Hallikas, Mayor of Fort Frances

“We are incredibly grateful for the provincial funding that has made this project a reality. This investment allows us to create a safe and supportive space for individuals who need it most, providing not just housing, but also access to the services they need to rebuild their lives. With the support of programs like the Homelessness Prevention Program and the Social Services Relief Fund, we can make a lasting impact in the Rainy River District.” – Deborah Ewald, Chair of the District of Rainy River Services Board

 “Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS) is immensely grateful for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing funding contribution that has enabled us to develop 30 affordable two-bedroom residences for our Indigenous community members to call home. This collaboration with the provincial government, along with CGV Builders’ generous donation of the property at 1 McLeod Drive, has created a residence that upholds high environmental sustainability benchmarks and gives priority access to individuals facing homelessness or living in overcrowded conditions. We are not only providing much-needed housing but also fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for the community.” – Justin Marchand, CEO of Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services

Additional Resources

Learn more about affordable housing in Ontario and find your local service manager to see what housing supports are available in your community.

Read the 2024 Ontario Budget: Building a Strong Ontario.