Hamilton to receive $26.7M to build 109 affordable homes

Hamilton is set to receive $26.7 million from the federal government to help build roughly 109 new affordable homes.

The funds were announced during a news conference Tuesday morning with federal and municipal officials including Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion and Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger.

The investment is part of the government’s Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) that aims to create over 10,000 new affordable homes throughout Canada.

During Tuesday’s announcement, officials revealed three projects in Hamilton that will transform current buildings into affordable housing for those in marginalized communities.

The first project will convert a former Colombia International College building at 35 Arkledun Ave. into 73 units targeted towards women, transgender and non-binary community members who are experiencing homelessness or those at risk of homelessness. The project will receive $12.9 million under the Cities Stream of the RHI and $3.35 million under Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy program.

The second project is located at 253 King William St. The building is currently operated by CityHousing Hamilton. Roughly 24 units will be created for women and their children, those experiencing homelessness or those at risk of homelessness, and for Black Canadians. The project will receive $6.4 million under the Project Stream of the RHI.

The final project will receive $3.8 million will create 12 units at St. Matthew’s House at 412 Barton St. East for Black Canadians and Indigenous people.

In a statement, Eisenberger said the pandemic has intensified the need to access affordable housing in Hamilton. He said Tuesday’s announcement is a critical step to address and help end the cycle of homelessness.