New Habitat for Humanity Hamilton development to provide homes for 40 residents

Habitat for Humanity Hamilton has broken ground on its most ambitious project in 35 years of operation. The new Dawson Avenue development in Stoney Creek will help 40 city residents become homeowners within a single build.

Rain did not dampen spirits at 19 Dawson Ave. today as officials gathered to mark the start of construction on 10 new energy-efficient units designed for local families who qualify.

“They have to have a willingness to partner with Habitat,” said Sean Ferris, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Hamilton. “They need to be local residents working or living here in Hamilton for at least two years and generally be able to pay a market rent.”

Under the organization’s traditional model, Habitat transfers the title of the home to the family and holds the mortgage with zero interest and no down payment.

Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath said the project provides a necessary light for those struggling to enter the housing market.

“What it really does is it gives people hope,” Horwath said. “When I talk to young people in this city, when I talk to young families in this city, struggling families in the city, they’re losing hope to ever be able to own their home,  to be able to afford their own home. And this is a perfect solution to that challenge.”

The demolition of the existing building and the subsequent build is expected to cost $4.5 million. Funding is being provided by community and corporate contributors, including a $575,000 investment from the City of Hamilton.

The project introduces two new elements to the local Habitat model. First, renters will receive a portion of their rent back to be used as a down payment for future housing. Second, the development is designed as the equivalent of five townhomes, totaling 10 individual units.

Habitat Hamilton says the two-year project comes at a critical time as the need for affordable housing continues to rise.

“We’re seeing more and more folks reach out to us who are feeling desperate and a little lost because there’s not a lot of options available for them in the market right now,” said Katheryn Fair of Habitat Hamilton.

Those interested in more information regarding the build are encouraged to visit the organization’s website.

WATCH MORE: Residents concerned as downtown Hamilton Salvation Army plans move