Ground broken for Kitchener transitional housing units on Victoria Street
Ground has been broken at 97 Victoria Street in Kitchener for the development of 44 new transitional housing units with expanded community supports.
“This is going to be a vibrant community. It's not only about making home for people , but it's providing the meals, and kinds of things people need. Like showers and laundry. That makes a community. That helps people out when they're down,” Joe Mancini, director of The Working Centre said.
The site, located directly across the street from a large encampment at Victoria and Weber streets is currently home to St. John’s Kitchen. The soup kitchen provides access to meals, laundry, showers, health services and harm reduction supplies for people in need.
Construction for the project is set to start on Sept. 15.
According to the full project overview, tenancy is targeted for fall or winter of 2024.
Its $21.8 million dollar price tag is covered by grants, with $9.8 million coming as part of the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) city stream.
Another $6.3 million comes from private commitments, and $3 million from private fundraising.
The rest is from secured grants.
“The development of 97 Victoria is an example of what is possible when the community, local partners, the private sector and different levels of government work together with a single vision,” Region of Waterloo Chair Karen Redman said. “The Region of Waterloo is grateful to our federal partners for recognizing the urgency of developing affordable and supportive housing in Waterloo Region.”
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Feels like mid-30s in parts of Canada, while other areas expecting snow
Anything is possible this week, as far as Canada's weather is concerned, with forecasts ranging from scorching heat in some parts of the country to rain and snow in others.
BREAKING Canada's inflation cools to 3-year low of 2.7%, in boost for rate cut bets
Canada's annual inflation rate slowed to a three-year low of 2.7 per cent in April, matching expectations, and core measures continued to ease, data showed on Tuesday, likely boosting chances of a June interest rate cut.
1 dead, others injured after London-Singapore flight hit severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines says
One person has died aboard a London-Singapore flight that encountered severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines said Tuesday. The plane was diverted to Bangkok, where emergency crews rushed to help injured passengers amid stormy weather.
Independent stores and grocery alternatives see sales boost amid Loblaw boycott
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
How to check the Air Quality Health Index and assess your health risks
As we enter another wildfire season, Environment and Climate Change Canada is advising people to pay attention to air pollution levels and check the Air Quality Health Index – especially on smoky days.
Cardinal Lacroix cleared after investigation ordered by the Pope
The Vatican has announced that the investigation it commissioned into allegations of sexual touching against Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix did not confirm any act constituting misconduct or abuse on the part of the Vatican.
Trudeau making 'Team Canada' pitch in visit to Philadelphia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Philadelphia today, on his first trip south of the border since his government launched a new 'Team Canada' charm offensive in the United States.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Final
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.