An initiative from the federal government will bring more affordable housing to Niagara.
Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, was joined by Niagara's Regional Chair Jim Bradley, Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey, and St. Catharines MP Chris Bittle for today's announcement.
Over $10.5 million through the government's Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) will be put towards creating 41 affordable homes for Niagara residents at risk of homelessness or living in temporary shelters as a result of the pandemic.
We spoke with Hussen, who notes the project is 100 percent federally funded, and the homes will be created in one year or less.
He also says the project is especially needed right now due to the pandemic.
"Of course, the pandemic has worsened housing situations, and that is true in many communities across Canada."
Hussen also praised Niagara for its recent Point-in-Time homelessness count.
"This is the best data the region has ever had with respect to the homeless population. They had real data, reliable data, and when you really track the numbers...you have a better and more clear picture."
You can hear the full interview below.
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