Province kicking in $3M for supportive housing in St. Thomas

The provincial government is providing $3 million in funding to help build 20 supportive housing units in St. Thomas.

The money for the units inside of a new four-storey building at 16 Queen Street was announced on Thursday and comes from the social services relief fund.

“Our government’s Social Services Relief Fund is designed to provide immediate housing and homelessness program relief in communities across Ontario,” said Steve Clark, the province’s minister of municipal affairs and housing. “By investing $3 million in St. Thomas, we continue to support innovative housing projects to give those in need a home no matter their budget or background.”

The 20 supportive housing units within the building will support people dealing with mental health and addiction issues, homelessness, and Indigenous peoples. Support staff will be on site seven days a week, with nutritional support, medication assistance, clinical services, and peer community support services available.

The 45 one-bedroom apartment building will also have a fire station and commercial space on the ground floor and is close to the downtown with access to public transit, parks, schools, grocery stores, and pharmacies.

“I’m pleased that the Ontario government has recognized our much-needed supportive housing initiatives” said Mayor Joe Preston. “The funding provided will ensure we are able to help our most vulnerable residents by providing them a safe, supportive place to live.”

The first residents are expected to be able to move into the new supportive housing units by December 2023.

Read original story from London Ontario – BlackburnNews.com